During the relocation process, your mind will be focused on so many moving parts (pun intended!) and logistical tasks, making it easy for certain details to slip your mind. It’s our goal at Gentle Giant to make sure everyone has the tools they need to feel confident, organized, and secure ahead of their long-distance move.

Here are five common long-distance moving mistakes and how to avoid them:

1.) Booking your long-distance move too close to your moving date

Any advanced notice customers can provide is greatly appreciated as companies take greater precautions to maintain safety and sanitation during COVID-19. Scheduling your move in advance is critical to ensure you are able to move on the dates you have requested. The further the distance, the sooner you will want to reach out to your moving company so they can look at their schedule.

Hiring an independent long-distance moving company such as Gentle Giant means we will be able to give you a much more accurate delivery window, in comparison to our competitors. Since we would be handling the move from start to finish, it makes planning and scheduling your long-distance move much easier. This is important ahead of the holiday season and winter weather.

2.) Underestimating how long it will take to pack for your long-distance move

Many people will take a look at their inventory and predict an idea of how long it might take them to pack. Most of the time, the packing process takes far longer than we originally anticipate. To prepare accordingly, estimate a realistic timeline, then tack on a few extra hours so you’re not frantically packing the night before your move.

Additionally, you can pace out the process to avoided being overwhelmed, or take advantage of packing services offered by professional long-distance moving companies such as Gentle Giant. For the times when it’s still too late, contact your move coordinator as soon as possible so they can help you make appropriate arrangements.

3.) Refusing to take time to declutter and donate items during the packing process

A major reason why you should set aside plenty of time to pack before your long-distance move is to decide which items you can leave behind. A smaller inventory means your move will be faster and more affordable than if you were to not make thoughtful decisions about what you truly want to take with you to your new home.

A move is the perfect time to declutter and donate any items you don’t need. Make various piles of items to keep, donate, or throw away.

4.) Failing to communicate your long-distance move with your neighbors

It’s a common courtesy to let your neighbors know when you’ll be moving so they can prepare for any noise and/or parking logistics which may occur once the moving truck and crew arrives. For neighbors with whom you’ve created a positive acquaintance relationship, you might find that they offer to bring you a meal or ask to assist you with childcare or pet sitting on moving day. Prior to your long-distance move, it will likely be beneficial to connect with your local barista, hairdresser, and other comparable acquaintances too so they know where you’re headed and how to stay in touch, if desired.

5.) Forgetting about storage options ahead of your long-distance move

Depending on the long-distance move you’ll be making, you’ll likely find storage services to be an extremely helpful part of your process. You might have a surplus of boxes you don’t need to unpack right away, and storage can prevent overcrowding in your new home.

When discussing your long-distance move with a move consultant, inquire about their storage services and how the payment process works. Many companies offer perks such as a discounted rate when purchasing a certain number of vaults.

To get a quote for your long-distance move, use our moving estimate request form and inventory checklist, or call us at 800-442-6863 to speak with a move consultant and find out how we can assist you with your long-distance move.