Moving truck

Not all moves are the same. A move within town allows you to find different solutions to problems than moving long-distance. The farther away you need to go from where you’re living now, the more you need to be ready for those unique challenges.

Check the Professionals

Many people think that professional moving is an unnecessary expense. But once you add up the reals costs of moving yourself — and the ways that can go wrong — using the pros makes sense. Even if you’re not sure you want to use movers, it’s worth it to get an estimate. Check for free in-home estimates, like those from Gerber Moving & Storage, to see what they think your move will take. You might be surprised by just how much stuff you have, or the potential difficulties in getting that one piece of furniture cross-country without damage. If that estimate is lower than you thought, maybe the movers will look like the best option.

The More Stuff You Move, the More It Costs

Remember to downsize before you move. Professional movers or self-moving, the more items you have to transport will add to the overall cost. If you downsize, you might be able to get a smaller truck, or a trailer instead of a truck. Also, time is money, so don’t forget to account for the time used to pack, clean, load, and unload. If you choose to ship items, even at media mail rates, heavy package costs can add up.

One method to figure out what to keep and what to get rid of is the the “1-year” rule. If you haven’t needed or used the item for an entire year, do you really need it? Sometimes you do, but often you can safely donate, sell, or toss whatever it is.

Have a Plan

You have wiggle room during an in-town room that you may not have long-distance. Maybe you can look at the new place in person, or take several trips, or you know people who can lend a hand. If you’re only able to see your new home through pictures and online floorplans, you need to consider how much room you actually have. That giant overstuffed chair might be comfortable, but will it fit through the doorway? Will it fill half the room?

Get measurements for the new place and your furniture, and see what works. Don’t think just in terms of square footage, but open floor space. Ask your realtor or property manager if they can take pictures (with or without furniture) so you can visualize the new house.

Label every box so that you or the movers know where everything goes. Have a list of the things you’ll need when you arrive, and where you can get them. Look at social media to see what the new area is like, and whether anyone is willing to offer help.

Also, make sure you know your route, including places to stop for the night. Did you consider how you’re getting all your vehicles to your new city? If you’re using a moving company, make sure you know your rights.

Moving Might Be Tax Deductible

If you have to move long-distance for a job, you might be able to claim a tax deduction. You’ll want to check out the IRS site on moving expenses, and also talk to an accountant, because the details might be tricky. But in the meantime, keep all your receipts for the moving company, rentals, gas, hotel rooms, and meals while you move.

Good luck on your move, and arrive safely. Remember, Gerber Moving & Storage is always here to help you with moves of any distance.