Once you’ve decided to pack up and move a long distance, the excitement of the change eventually settles into the reality of the situation—there’s a lot to do. From creating checklists to renting a storage unit, there are a lot of ways you can ease the transition. Here are some items to put on your to-do list before the big move.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

1. Create a Master Inventory

Once they need to pack it all up, most people find they have more stuff than they think they do. Before you begin packing, create a master inventory list. Divide your items into categories such as kitchen, bathroom, clothes, furniture, or electronics. List every item on an online document for easy searching. Pack according to this list so you can easily find what you need when you unpack.

2. Take the Opportunity to Downsize

Moving long distance is the perfect opportunity to re-evaluate your possessions. As you’re making your master inventory list, put any items that aren’t used anymore, are too old, or aren’t needed in a separate pile. Then, you can decide which items should be thrown away, sold, or donated. This process will make you feel refreshed, provide a great starting point for your new chapter, and ease the move thanks to the lighter loads.

3. Protect Delicate Items

Anything that is fragile should be protected as much as possible by bubble wrap or paper to make sure it arrives at your new home intact. Clearly label any boxes that contain precious items as “FRAGILE” to make sure your movers know to take extra care.

4. Secure a Storage Unit Ahead of the Move

Even if you can’t move into your new home before a specific date, you can still make progress in the meantime. If you are planning trips to your new city, bring a few items with you; by renting a storage unit, you can ease moving day by relocating some boxes early.

If you’re planning a long-distance move, Alpine Storage Inc. in Kalispell, MT, will help you tackle the task. With a wide variety of storage unit sizes available, you’ll find one that suits your needs during the move. The company’s well-lit and fenced-in property protected by a coded gate lets you store your goods without any worries. Visit the website for more information on the available units, and call (406) 755-0002 to rent a space. We are happy to answer any questions you may have concerning storage.