10 Tips for Planning a Long-Distance Move

1. Start Planning Early

The earlier you start, the smoother things will go. Begin planning at least two months in advance. Create a moving checklist, build a timeline, and begin tackling tasks on a week-by-week basis. Long-distance moves involve more coordination, so avoid last-minute decisions.

2. Downsize Before You Pack

Cut down on what you have to move by donating, selling, or recycling items you no longer need. The less you take with you, the more money you’ll save—and the easier it will be to pack and unpack. Unique Movers can even come pick up your junk or donations!

3. Label Everything Clearly

Label boxes by room and contents so you can find things quickly when you arrive. For added organization, number each box and keep a separate inventory list. This also helps track items during the move and ensures nothing gets lost in transit.

4. Pack for a Long Journey

Use sturdy boxes, wrap fragile items carefully, and avoid overpacking to ensure safe transportation. Long-distance moves often involve multiple stops or long hours on the road—make sure your items are packed to withstand the journey.

5. Pack a Personal Essentials Bag

Keep your essentials with you, including clothes, toiletries, medications, chargers, important documents, and anything else you’ll need for a few days. Your moving truck could arrive a day or two after you do.

6. Update Your Utilities & Services

Contact your current and future utility providers to schedule disconnections and new connections as needed. Be sure to update your address with banks, insurance providers, subscriptions, and the U.S. Postal Service.

7. Prepare Your New Home

If you can visit your new home ahead of time, take measurements and plan your layout. Make sure everything is clean and ready for move-in. If you can’t visit, ask your real estate agent or landlord for photos or floor plans to help you visualize the space.

8. Confirm Travel Plans

Book your travel early—especially if you’re flying. If you’re driving, have your vehicle inspected before the trip. Make sure you have a planned route, hotel reservations (if necessary), and accommodations for pets or children.

9. Stay Organized and Flexible

Keep all your important moving documents in one folder, including contracts, receipts, and contact info. Even well-planned moves can encounter bumps, so be prepared to build in a little flexibility for delays or last-minute changes.

10. Hire Trusted Minnesota Long-Distance Movers

Not all movers handle long-distance jobs, and even fewer do it well. Hiring experienced, insured movers gives you peace of mind and protects your belongings. At Unique Movers, our team of professional Minnesota long-distance movers knows how to handle the logistics, heavy lifting, and transport to make your move seamless.