5 Things You Should Know About Interstate Moving

Moving to a new home is always exciting and even more so when making a new beginning in another state. While you are looking forward to the fresh start, familiarize yourself with the moving process. Here are things you should know about interstate moving:

It is better to hire movers

It is always better to leave long-distance move to professionals. However, if you decide to DIY, there are some things you will need to do. The first one is to rent a moving truck or another vehicle large enough to fit your entire household. Include money for fuel and road tolls along the way. You will also need to get appropriate insurance for your items because your belongings can get damaged along the way. Gather a sufficient amount of packing supplies, such as boxes, bubble wrap, paper, etc. Remember to ask for help because executing an interstate move alone is not the easiest option.

When hiring movers with storage NYC, always choose a reliable one. Read reviews online and pay close attention to comments that are relevant to your needs. Search for movers who have credentials and experience with interstate moving. Always do full research on the moving company, such as reviews and a license number.

Price quotes can vary

Don’t be too quick to settle on the first moving company you find. Rather obtain several quotes and compare their prices. You will find a variation in their quotes, so make sure to ask what’s included in it. Ask plenty of questions because sometimes a lower price means that some of the services are not provided. Beware of the extremely low price because it can be an indicator of fraudulent movers.

Interstate moving price

It is determined based on several factors, and here are some of them:

Overall load

Shipping cost is often based on the overall weight of your items. The more items you have, the higher the price gets. With interstate moving, the cost can also be calculated based on the total size of the load. That means that movers determine the price depending on the square feet that items take up in a moving truck. If you are on a budget, this is the important factor to consider because you can save simply by packing smarter. You can always order reusable bins and moving boxes for your move.

Distance

Unlike local moves where the price is often calculated per hour, with interstate moving total mileage affects the cost. The farther the distance between your current and new home is, the higher the cost will be.

Moving date

Always book in advance if possible. This gives you the chance to have all movers available, but also to get a better deal. Certain days are more expensive for moving, so you can ask your company on which day you can get the best price. Also, moving at the peak of the season is generally the most expensive option, so look into your dates and different options to save money.

Extra services

Additional charges can be applied in case you need extra services. It can be anything from packing, disassembling/reassembling furniture, etc. Know your priorities before you negotiate about the services you are getting, and make sure you understand the contract fully before signing.

Types of interstate moves

Consolidated

This is a more affordable way to move because your things will share space with someone else’s things. If there is another person going in the same direction, a moving company will use one moving truck to fit yours and their belongings. The great thing about the consolidated move is that it costs less and is better for the environment. Because it takes less driving time, it also requires less fuel and lowers the ecological footprint. The downside of this type is that it can take from several days to several weeks to get your things delivered. It is a good choice if you are on a budget and you are not very strict on the arrival date.

Exclusive

This type of move is more expensive because you get the whole truck for your things exclusively. You don’t have to worry that your items will get mixed up with somebody else’s items. Also, you know exactly the date when the truck with your belongings will arrive, which makes it more convenient. It is the right choice if your budget allows, especially if you have some valuable items that you want to move.

Things to do before interstate moving

Make a plan

Always start with making a checklist and including all tasks in it. You can even download one for free and customize it accordingly. Include a timeline because it is easier to track progress when you have a time frame.

Minimize clutter

Don’t bring along anything that you don’t use or that is not appealing to you anymore. Sell or donate everything that you don’t want in your new home. When you declutter, you will also save money for shipping because the total load will be lighter and take up less space in a moving truck.

Pack

If you don’t hire full-service movers, you will pack the entire household, and it is easier said than done. Make sure you start way in advance because you want to avoid panic at the last moment. Have everything ready once your movers arrive. Ask your friends for help and focus on packing one room at the time to stay organized.

Research your new home

Gather some information about your new home to be prepared for new surroundings. Check how the living cost compares to your current one, and which lifestyle you will find. Searching for a new apartment and a new job should be your priority unless that is the reason for your move and you have it sorted out already. You can research about your new neighborhood and use Google street view to see it.

Check dates

Your move-in date might be after your moving truck arrives. Double-check if those dates are aligned because you will need a space to keep things until the new home is available. If that is the case, search for a storage unit that is an affordable and convenient way to store your belongings.