Ways To Reduce The Stress Of Moving Long Distance

Moving is a highly stressful period that ranks close behind death and divorce. A long distance or international move is especially stressful. Many people are seeking ways to make this period as successful as possible. As decisions pile up and the date draws nearer, many people appreciate any pointers that help make this move go as smooth as possible.

Today’s society is full of bi-coastal dwellers and those who often exchange shores between the U.S. and Europe. These people often learn from their mistakes and are gladly willing to share their successes and horror stories. A few tips from those "in-the-know" that are well worth repeating are mentioned below:

1.Research moving companies and get at least three quotes before you sign any contracts. Just because a moving company is licensed with The U.S. Department of Transportation, this is not a guarantee that the moving company has a great performance record. Not every moving company is equipped to handle long distance moves or is competent to handle every international customs regulations.

Not all moving company contacts are alike. Guarantees and insurance coverage vary. Some insurance replace or repair lost and damaged goods. Also, some movers guarantee an arrival date, give or take a few extra days. This may leave you bearing the cost associated with waiting for your belongings to arrive.

Online moving directories are abundant. Check out Getamover.com, Mover.com, or 123movers.com. For international movers, check out Allied, British Association of Removers, or FIDI.

2. Don’t pack valuables if the mover doesn’t guarantee their safety. Many movers must pack and move the breakables and valuables themselves for insurance to cover their repair or replacement. To know where to cut budget expenses, weigh the difference between paying the mover to the work versus you paying to replace these valuable items. Moving companies generally send a moving manager to your place to survey your belongings and come up with a quote. Let the manager know if you plan to leave some heavier items behind. Also, the manager can offer useful tips on how you can further reduce your quote by packing certain things yourself. Most movers prefer you use their strong boxes. Look over the mover’s list of items that cannot be moved or aren’t allowed through customs.

Rather than paying a mover to pack all your belongings, some items such as those below can be packed ahead of time by you:  Closet hanging clothes (in tall boxes with hanging bars)  Lamp shades  Books (packed in small boxes)

3. Make a backup plan in case your mover doesn’t arrive on time. Also, pack your personals and important papers a few days before the move. You want to use your moving day to supervise the packers and movers. During the move, take advantage of the company’s tracking system to call in or log on to find out your belonging’s whereabouts. While the movers are unpacking, go over your inventory list carefully and check off each box as it’s unloaded.

Even the smoothest move taxes your mind and body. Planning R&R helps you to rejuvenate and transition into a new period full of initial changes. Remember, Murphy’s Law does affect everyone’s move, hopefully yours will be a slightly less than other’s experiences.