5 Tips for Packing for a Long Distance Move

Planning and executing a long distance move can be a time consuming and stressful task. As soon as you know your moving date, make sure you book a reputable long distance moving company to transport your belongings. As moving day gets closer, you will need to start packing. Use the following tips when packing for a long distance move:

Start Early

It is easy to underestimate the amount of time it takes to pack up a whole house full of belongings--it is in your best interest to begin the packing process as early as possible. Start by going through every closet and drawer and deciding what you want to keep. Sell or donate anything that you no longer use or need--getting rid of unwanted stuff will reduce your moving bill while also making unpacking easier when you arrive at your new home. 

Secure Your Belongings

During a long distance move, your belongings will be jostled and bumped as the moving truck travels towards your destination, so it is important to pack your things properly. Use newspaper or packing paper as a buffer inside boxes; ideally, each box should be completely full and insulated to prevent any damage during transit. For breakable items, such as dishes and glasses, wrap each item in bubble wrap, and then fill the excess space inside the box with additional padding. Don't forget about large items like furniture--wrap mattresses, wood furniture, and upholstered furniture in thick plastic wrap to protect it during the move.

Keep an Inventory

When moving a whole household, it can be difficult to keep track of everything. As you're packing up your home, keep an inventory of how many boxes you have. Doing so will make it easy to count the number of boxes in your new home when you arrive so you can rest assured that everything made it to your new destination.

Label Every Box

Packing can be exhausting, but taking the time to label each box will make your life so much easier when the moving truck is unpacked and you begin unboxing all of your things. Write the room that each box belongs in and, to make it even easier to locate things that you need, write what is inside each box.

Pack Necessities for Each Family Member

When packing clothes and toiletries for each family member, think beyond just the amount of time it takes to travel to your new home. It is a good idea to have clothing and toiletries to last for the first few days after the move so you don't have to worry about unpacking right away to find pajamas or clean clothes as soon as you walk in the door. 

For more assistance during your long distance move, talk to a company like Affordable Transfer Co Inc.

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