Saying that there are a million details involved in a long distance move might be exaggerating, but not by much. There is much planning and organizing to be done. Your circumstances and your lifestyle will determine the specific complexities of your move, but there are some general tips and advice for long distance moving that will be helpful for just about anybody. One thing that many people overlook when giving or receiving advice and tips on long distance moving is timing.

Get Organized

For much of the planning and organizing for a long distance move, getting things done as soon as possible after you know you will move is best. Many people find it helpful to start a binder or folder specifically for documents related to their long distance move. The binder can contain receipts, appointments and several lists. You will want several lists, such as a list of important documents, a list of people or firms that need to be notified of the move, a list of items to get rid of and a list of tasks that need to be completed. Preparing a budget for the long distance move can make it easier to make some decisions.

Pick a Long Distance Moving Company & Schedule the Move

Scheduling movers and arranging for storage should also be done as soon as possible. They often schedule by the month, so it is ideal if you have two months’ notice before you move. Contact different long distance moving companies, such as Black Tie Moving, to inquire about their moving services and a moving estimate. If your long distance moving plans involve flying or a hotel stay, you can probably save money by booking as early as possible. If you have items that need special handling during your long distance move, such as an antique china set or pets, talk to your moving company about whether they can accommodate these items.

Tie Up Loose Ends

Once you have the actual move scheduled and arranged, you will want to think about such things as disconnecting utilities in your old home and having them connected at your new home. You will also want to start on projects such as defrosting the refrigerator and emptying gasoline out of power equipment. You can submit a change of address form with the post office four or five weeks ahead of your move. This will help prevent missed mail or having to retrieve mail from your old address. A yard sale a few weeks before your move may take up some of your time, but it may give you more money to work with in your moving budget, and people will pay you money to take away items that you don’t want to move.

Pack Strategically

Start packing a couple of weeks before you start your long distance move. Label boxes so that movers know where to put them in your new home, and so you know what the boxes contain. This will help you set priorities when you start unpacking.  When you start packing, make a list of things that you want to take with you in the car or on the plane. Most people prefer to keep their cell phone, jewelry and other small valuables. Many people also prefer to transport important documents themselves, such as insurance policies, birth certificates and auto registration. If you prefer to use your mover’s packing services, be sure to arrange this with them when you schedule the move. If your move is a cross-country move, don’t forget to register your vehicle in the new state.