Moving—it’s one of those things most of us have to do from time to
time. However, it’s seldom one of those things we enjoy doing,
especially if we have to make a move of any significant distance. Moving
long distance, across a state or across the country, can be challenging.
If you plan ahead, though, you can make that long distance move less of
a hassle and maybe even more of a pleasant experience.
First, you’ll need to figure out your moving dates. How far away is your
new place? How long will it take you to drive there: One day? Several
days? A week? How much time do you want to allow for unpacking once you
arrive? Most people need at least a week to do minimal unpacking of
necessities like kitchenware and clothes.
Next, think about how much stuff you have to move. Most likely you will
need to rent a moving truck to transport your stuff. Most companies that
rent moving trucks have Web sites that will help you estimate the size
of the vehicle you’ll need. If you are moving a long distance, you’ll
need to investigate one way moving truck rental so that you don’t have
to return the truck to its original location. You’ll be able to reserve
a truck based on your anticipated moving date.
Once you have your date and truck, it’s time to get packing. Use this
opportunity to pare down and get rid of things that you don’t use or
need any more. Lighten your load; most of us have more stuff than we
need, and a long distance move is a great occasion to weed out the less
essential or less useful things in our possession. You’ll need to
purchase or gather boxes for packing as well as newspaper for cushioning
and tape for sealing your boxes. To help streamline your unpacking, try
to keep related items in the same box and clearly label each box.
On moving day, you’ll pick up your truck and load it. Packing a truck is
kind of like putting a puzzle together. Give yourself plenty of time to
make the most use of the space in your truck. All that’s left is the
long drive to the new place and unpacking. Since most trucks can be a
bit ponderous to drive, prepare for a long slow journey; try to enjoy
your trip and relax along the way so that you’ll be ready for the task
of unpacking. Remember: once you reach your new place, unpacking is all
that’s left to do!
