The second you know interstate moving is in your near future you should start preparing. It is easy to say, “I have three months, I’ll do that later!” but soon it will be two months, then you will be down to 30 days, wondering where the time went. These moves require a lot of preparation before you move. The last thing you want to do is wait until the last minute, unless you really enjoy being miserable, and are hoping for an awful experience.
Start Contacting Interstate Movers – There are a lot of interstate movers to choose from, but they are not all worthy of consideration. This is a huge decision. These people will literally have everything you own in their hands for a substantial amount of time. Don’t hire interstate movers based only on price. You need to know exactly what is included in the quote they provide. You also need to make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured. Reading reviews is highly recommended, too.
Collect Boxes – It is never too early to start collecting boxes before you move. You may feel like you have a lot of time left to do this now, but your intestate movers will be knocking on your door before you know it. Plus, if you start collecting early, you can be a little pickier and pass over the flimsy ones. You don’t have to pay for boxes either. There are plenty of places you can get free moving boxes suitable for interstate moving.
Pack Things You Don’t Need – Just because you have two months until the big day does not mean you can’t start packing. If it is winter, all your camping and sporting gear can get packed. If it is summer then your snowsuits, boots, and winter clothes probably will not be needed for a while. Aim to do a box a day and you will barely have anything left closer to the move, which will relieve a lot of stress.
Downsize – Get a few really large boxes that can be stored in the basement, garage, or somewhere out of the way before you move. As you begin packing, anything you don’t need or want can go in these boxes to donate, sell, or throw away. There is no point having your interstate movers haul this unwanted stuff across the country.
Plan Menus – If you have a substantial pantry or cupboards fairly well stocked you should not have to do much grocery shopping before the move. With a little careful planning, you should be able to use up most things. Be sure to consider everything in your freezer and fridge, as well. If you know you are going to have a lot leftover, find out where a shelter or outreach program is near you that you can donate to.
Arrange Travel Plans – Do you plan on driving across the country? If you have a large family and pets, you need to rent a car for your spouse or someone else to drive, so you can all get to your destination. You will also need to plan your travel route and book hotels. If you are traveling with pets be sure the hotels are pet-friendly and have a copy of their vaccinations handy.