A guide to moving long distance: 5 tips for a hassle-free transition

Relocating over a long distance ranks highly among significant life choices. To ease the pressure and set you up for a hassle-free move, we've compiled five tips to help guide you throughout the process.

Tip one: make a well-thought-out plan ahead of time

It's essential to be thoroughly prepared well before your moving date. To avoid any unforeseen obstacles, take the time to compile a list of all your concerns and work toward finding solutions.

Consider the following questions:

• Will the property I am moving into be ready on time? If not, have I budgeted and arranged for alternative accommodations?
• Have I done thorough research on the area I am moving to? Do I know where to locate essential services such as grocery stores, pharmacies and hospitals?
• Have I informed my utility providers (such as electricity, gas, water and internet) about my move, and have I made arrangements for these services to be disconnected at my current residence and reconnected at my new one?

The nature of your plan will change depending on your circumstance, but the principle remains the same: Ensure all your t's are crossed and i's are dotted.

Tip two: downsize where possible

To make your move more manageable, you may want to consider donating any personal or household items that you no longer use, nor foresee future use for. Although parting with sentimental items may be challenging, having a lighter load can make the transition much smoother.

Downsizing not only saves you money but also reduces the time and effort required to unpack and settle in at your new place.

Tip three: choose the right moving company

To ensure that you receive an accurate estimate for your move, approach at least three reputable moving companies in your area for an in-home estimate. This estimate refers to the provider visiting your home and providing a quote based on your contents.

Once you have received the quote, for your own peace of mind, consider asking the moving company the following questions:

• Is the quote final, or subject to change? Are there any hidden costs that are not included in the estimate?
• How do you determine the pricing for your quotes? Is it based on weight or time?

In addition to asking these questions, schedule a meeting with an insurance agent to discuss your options for protecting your belongings during the move.

Tip four: get your documents in order

As you create a moving plan, make sure to note down the various documents you need to gather before your move. These may include:

• Medical records.
• Passports.
• School documents.
• Legal records.
• Pet records.
• Lease agreements or mortgage details.

Even if you don't anticipate needing a particular document, it's still beneficial to have them on hand in case of any unforeseen situations.

Tip five: ask for help

Moving long distance can be a stressful experience. As such, it's important to consider reaching out for assistance.

This can come in the form of a friend to help with unpacking, or seeking professional advice to ensure a smooth and efficient transition into your new property. Remember, help is always available and can make a world of difference.

If you're planning on making a move to Queensland, Ray White Surfers Paradise can help. Click here to find out more about our range of services.