Planning a Long-Distance Move? Get Your Relocation Checklist Here

Moving long-distance can be an exciting new chapter, but it comes with its share of challenges. From coordinating logistics to ensuring your belongings arrive safely, the process can feel overwhelming. A detailed checklist is the key to a stress-free transition, keeping you organized every step of the way. With 25 years of experience in real estate and an unparalleled global network, The Jana Caudill Team is an expert in relocation. We’ll help you plan your move confidently.

Some of the most important steps in preparing for a long-distance move include:

• Creating a Moving Budget: Outline your expenses, including movers, transportation and lodging.
• Decluttering: Sort through belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need.
• Organizing Important Documents: Keep passports, contracts and financial records in a secure, easily accessible folder.
• Packing Strategically: Label boxes clearly and prioritize essential items for quick access.
• Planning for Utilities and Services: Schedule disconnections at your current home and set up utilities at your new location.
• Staying Connected with Updates: Keep in touch with movers and notify necessary parties of your new address.

What should I declutter and organize first?

Before you start packing, it’s essential to sort through your belongings. Go through your home room by room and decide what to keep, donate or sell. This not only reduces the number of items you have to move but also helps you create an inventory list, which will be useful for tracking your belongings and for insurance purposes.

How do I budget and book moving services?

A successful move starts with a clear budget. Outline all potential expenses, including moving company fees, packing supplies and travel costs. Obtain quotes from multiple trusted moving companies to compare costs and services. Be sure to book your preferred movers early, particularly during busy seasons, and inquire about moving insurance to safeguard your belongings.

Who needs to be notified about my move?

Updating your address and transferring services are critical steps. Make a list of all institutions and contacts that need your new address.

• File a change of address with the post office.
• Notify banks, credit card companies and insurance providers.
• Schedule the disconnection and reconnection of utilities like electricity, gas and water.
• Transfer services such as internet, cable and any home security systems.

What packing supplies will I need?

Gathering the right supplies ahead of time will make packing much more efficient. Stock up on sturdy boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap and markers. For fragile items like dishes or glassware, consider using specialty boxes with dividers. Keep essential tools like scissors and a box cutter handy to streamline the process.

How should I label and prioritize my boxes?

Proper labeling is a game-changer when it comes to unpacking. Use a color-coding system to assign a color to each room in your new home, and label each box with its contents and a “fragile” notice if needed. Start by packing non-essential items, such as seasonal decor and books, and save daily-use items for last.

What goes in an essentials box?

Pack a separate “essentials” box containing items you’ll need for the first 24 hours in your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, chargers, basic tools and snacks. Keep important documents like passports, birth certificates and moving contracts in a separate, secure folder that you carry with you.

How can I protect my home and belongings?

On moving day, take steps to protect both your old and new properties. Use floor protection and wall guards to prevent scratches and dings. Supervise the movers to ensure fragile items are handled with care and that boxes are loaded and unloaded into the correct rooms.

What about safety and final payments?

Keep valuables like jewelry and important documents with you instead of packing them on the moving truck. Before the movers leave, confirm the final payment details as per your contract and have tips ready if you’re satisfied with their service. Always check the inventory list to ensure all your boxes have arrived before signing off.

What do I do during the final walkthrough?

Before you leave your old home for the last time, conduct a thorough final walkthrough. Check every room, closet and appliance to make sure nothing has been left behind. Confirm that all utilities have been turned off and lock all windows and doors securely.

What’s the best way to unpack?

Unpacking can feel just as daunting as packing, but a strategic approach helps. Start with the essentials box, then move on to setting up bedrooms and the kitchen. Unpack one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Assembling beds and organizing kitchen basics first will help your new house feel like home more quickly.

Let Us Guide You Home

A long-distance move requires careful planning, but with the right checklist, you can manage the process smoothly and efficiently. Being organized is the key to a successful relocation. If you’re looking for a new home, The Jana Caudill Team has the experience, market knowledge and global network to make your move seamless. Let us help you find the perfect place to start your next chapter. Reach out today!