How to Pack for a Long-Distance Move?

How to Pack for a Long Distance Move?Every year, millions of Americans successfully move their belonging across the country. In fact, according the U.S. Census Bureau, long-distance moves of more than 500 miles were the second most popular moves between 2015 and 2016, second only to short moves of less than 50 miles. While the emotional impact of moving to a new area can be significant even if your new neighborhood is just across town, longer moves require more thoughtful advance planning if they are to be successful.

Packing Tips for the Long Haul

First, it’s important to note that long-distance moves can be hard on boxes, so you’ll want to buy double corrugated cardboard boxes rather than opting for cheap, low-grade alternatives or reused boxes from a local store. Remember, too, that your boxes will be handled by multiple people and will ride in a truck for long stretches of road that may have twists and turns that can jostle items inside the boxes. Therefore, it’s important that everything you pack inside your boxes is well-cushioned with foam, bubble wrap, or blankets and towels. You’ll also want to:

  • Make sure that every box is packed to the top to prevent loose items from moving around
  • Seal all containers inside your boxes because boxes may be turned on their side or upside down during the move
  • Keep each box’s weight at 30 pounds or less to spare yourself unnecessary strain
  • Pack your mattress in a box, otherwise it can be bent out of shape, torn, or tarnished during handling

Of course, not all of your items should be placed in a box. For instance, you’ll want to avoid packing food or liquids. Food can be crushed or otherwise spoiled during the move and can attract vermin. As for liquids, even well-sealed containers can be jostled open, resulting in unwanted or potentially damaging spillage on your belongings.

Organize Your Boxes

As a time saver, it’s especially helpful to pack at least one box with essential items that you will need as soon as you arrive at your new location. These could include everyday clothes and shoes, pots, pans, dishware, and silverware. To make unpacking easier, you can also organize the rest of your boxes by the rooms their contents belong in. Just be sure to label your boxes accordingly.

At Atlantic Relocation Systems, we are professional movers with decades of experience helping customers efficiently and safely transport their belongings. We can handle all aspects of your long-distance move, from packing, delivering, and unpacking your boxes to coordinating your move and storing your belongings. Contact us today for more information about our long-distance relocation services.