Additional Moving Preparation Requirements

Checklist for Preparing for a Long-Distance Move

When it comes to moving across state lines or even to a completely different part of the country, the level of planning and organization required increases significantly. A long-distance move involves far more than packing up your boxes and hitting the road. In this guide, we’re giving you a detailed checklist of things to do to make your long-distance move as seamless and stress-free as possible. And no, you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you need professional help, schedule an in-home visit here for a fixed price proposal tailored to your needs.

1. Start Early with a Detailed Moving Plan

One of the biggest mistakes people make when preparing for a long-distance move is waiting until the last minute. Trust me—things will get chaotic. So, let’s avoid that, shall we?

• Create a moving timeline: Break your moving process into chunks and set realistic deadlines. That means getting the ball rolling on tasks like finding a moving company, securing packing materials, and organizing your inventory.
• Book professional movers: Let’s face it, not everyone wants to be the one carrying heavy furniture across the state. If you’re in need of expert help, don’t wait too long to book movers, especially if you’re moving during peak season.

Want to make your life easier? Let us help you with a tailored proposal for your move.

2. Create a ‘First Night’ Box

How many times have you packed your house, only to arrive at your new place, tired and frustrated, searching through boxes to find the essentials? Let’s stop that cycle.

Your ‘first night’ box should include:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, and any other daily necessities.
• Clothes: A couple of outfits for the next day.
• Snacks and drinks: Because no one wants to dig out the silverware when they’re starving.
• Important documents: Passport, ID, birth certificates, and anything that could be tricky to find after the move.

Pro tip: Don’t forget your charger cords and pet supplies if you have furry family members.

3. Label Your Boxes Like a Pro

If you’ve ever had a friend (or a moving company) toss your boxes into random rooms with no labeling, you know the struggle. Labeling is everything.

Here’s how to label your boxes effectively:

• Room destination: Kitchen, bathroom, master bedroom, etc.
• Contents: Be specific—this will save you time when unpacking.
• Fragile items: If you have delicate items like fine art or luxury home goods, mark these boxes appropriately.

Need special help with fragile or valuable items? Check out our special collections for expert moving services.

4. Notify Important Contacts of Your Address Change

When moving long-distance, the last thing you want is missed bills or lost packages. Update these key contacts ahead of time:

• Postal service: Set up a change of address with the USPS.
• Utilities: Make sure gas, water, electricity, and internet services are transferred or canceled.
• Credit cards, banks, and subscriptions: Don’t let your mail pile up at your old address.

Controversial Take: You Don’t Need to Move Everything

Do you really need to drag everything with you? Be honest. That old couch you’ve had since college? Probably not worth the hassle. Here’s a tip—downsizing before the move can save you tons of time, money, and stress. Consider selling, donating, or disposing of items that no longer serve you.

Learn more with our downsizing tips.

5. Take Photos of Your Electronics Setup

Reconnecting your electronics can be a nightmare, especially with a million wires, plugs, and ports. But it doesn’t have to be.

• Before you unplug anything, take a picture of how everything is connected.
• This will help you reconnect devices in the same configuration at your new home.

It may seem tedious, but it will save you time and frustration.

6. Measure Doorways and Staircases

There’s nothing worse than realizing your favorite piece of furniture doesn’t fit through the front door—especially after driving across the country.

Measure everything, including:

• Doorways
• Hallways
• Staircases

Planning in advance can save you from moving obstacles or awkward moments on moving day. If you need professional movers to help with challenging spaces, schedule an in-home visit.

7. Take Care of Hazardous Materials

Did you know that certain hazardous materials aren’t allowed during moves? These items include:

• Paints
• Cleaning supplies
• Propane tanks

Dispose of them properly ahead of time. It’s not just about safety—moving companies can face fines for improperly transporting these items.

8. Get Your New Home Ready with a Floor Plan

Creating a floor plan for your new home before the movers arrive will save you from rearranging the furniture over and over again. Map out where each piece of furniture should go in advance. This also helps your movers place everything correctly.

Here’s a quick step-by-step:

1. Take measurements of each room.
2. Sketch out furniture arrangements.
3. Share this plan with your movers.

By doing this, you’ll avoid the frustration of heavy lifting after the move is complete.

9. Prepare for Pet and Child Care

It’s easy to overlook the little ones when planning a move, but trust me, you don’t want your children or pets underfoot during the chaos of a long-distance move. Here’s how you can minimize stress:

• Arrange for pet care: Either hire a sitter or ask a friend to look after your pets while you settle in.
• Child care: Consider enlisting a relative to take care of your kids for the day.

This will allow you to focus on the logistics of moving without distraction.

10. Pack Your Valuable Items Separately

Important documents and high-value items such as jewelry, fine art, or antiques should always be packed separately from your general belongings. You want to make sure these items are easily accessible and protected.

We provide specialized services for luxury homes and special collections. Check out our services for fine art and antiques.

Moving Day Survival Kit

Think about it: Moving day is going to be stressful. Keep a bag packed with essentials to keep you and your team going:

• Snacks and water: You need fuel!
• First-aid kit: You never know when someone might get a paper cut or trip.
• Basic tools: Screwdrivers, tape, and scissors for quick fixes.

11. Transfer Utilities and Cancel Subscriptions

Nothing is worse than arriving at your new place and realizing your water or electricity has been turned off. Avoid this stress by handling your utility transfers at least 2 weeks before the move.

Moving Doesn’t Have to Be a Nightmare

It may seem like a long list, but with careful preparation and a little help from the pros, your long-distance move can be smooth and hassle-free. And hey, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule your in-home proposal today and let’s make your move happen!

Appliance and Equipment Preparation

• Appliances:
  • All washers, dryers, and refrigerators must be completely unplugged and disconnected (both electrical and water connections)
  • Treadmills and exercise equipment must be fully dis-assembled

Specialty Items

• Floor Safes:
  • Must be unbolted from the floor
  • Must be completely emptied prior to moving
• Electronics and Wall Fixtures:
  • Flat-screen TVs mounted on brackets must be removed from the wall
  • All mirrors and pictures must be taken down (if you want professional packing)

Specialty Furniture

• Pool Tables:
  • Standard pool tables must be dis-assembled
  • Slate pool tables require special handling:
    • Must be dis-assembled
    • Slates must be professionally crated
• Hot Tubs:
  • Must be fully drained
  • Unplugged and disconnected
  • Must be moved to the front of the house and placed in the driveway

Storage and Scheduling

• Mini Storage:
  • Customer responsible for locating and securing storage unit
  • We will provide recommended unit size during initial presentation
• Partial Packing:
  • If you cannot complete self-packing before move date
  • We offer assistance (for additional cost)
  • Advanced notice required to bring appropriate packing materials

Additional Logistics

• Seasonal Moving Notice:
  • Between April 15 and mid-October
  • Minimum 30-day advanced scheduling required
• Vehicle Shipping:
  • No personal belongings allowed in vehicle
  • Recommended fuel level: approximately ¼ tank
• Access Requirements:
  • Items in attics, crawl spaces, or basements must be fully accessible
  • Customer responsible for bringing items to loading area