Moving locally? My local moving guide has got you covered. From cost estimates to DIY vs hiring movers, preparing and packing, and settling in, I’ve got the experience to help with your move.
Key Takeaways
Local moves are within 50 miles, cheap, fast, and sometimes tricky.
DIY or hire movers? Budget, physical ability, moving truck, etc.
Preparation is key—make checklists, organize and get packing supplies, and make essentials accessible.
Understanding Local Moves
A local move is within 50 miles. This distance has some advantages:
Lower cost
More transportation options
Less coordination required for a local move
Can be done in a few hours
Local moves are typically charged by the hour, so it’s easier to estimate cost based on time, not distance.
Whether you decide to do the move yourself, hire local movers, or a combination of both, make sure you understand the entity of your move and all the needs you will have at each end of the move. Both the starting point and the end point will have unique challenges to think about before hand. Make checklists to make sure you don’t miss any steps.
DIY or Professional Movers
Choosing between DIY and hiring movers depends on budget, physical ability, moving truck, and move complexity. DIY moving gives you control but can be physically demanding and time-consuming.
Hiring professional movers reduces manual labor and gives you peace of mind that your belongings will be handled by experts. Ultimately, it’s up to you and your move.
Each has pros and cons; know these to make an informed decision for your local move.
DIY Moving Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of DIY moving is cost savings. Renting a truck can cost between $120 to $200 and using friends’ trucks and your own vehicle can save you even more. Packing as much as you can yourself will save you even more.
DIY moving also gives you flexibility. You can pack and move at your own pace, which is helpful for specific needs. And let’s face it, moving is stressful enough; the more you can de-stress the situation, the smoother it will go. Remember, you can fit a lot of small stuff in your personal vehicle to save room in the moving truck for the bigger bulkier items like furniture and TVs.
Hiring Local Movers Benefits
A move is all about efficiency and budget, and hiring local movers gives you a convenient and often stress-free moving experience. Their expertise and efficiency means your belongings will be handled and transported safely, which reduces physical labor and time investment on your part.
Though the average cost of a local move with professional movers is around $1,680 and hourly rates range from $80 to $100, the peace of mind and reduced damage risk can justify the investment. Hiring movers also prevents issues like furniture damage or lack of insurance coverage.
Prepping for Your Move
Preparation is key to a successful move. Start by assessing your home and belongings to determine the scope of the move. Make a detailed checklist with milestones to keep you organized and stress-free. Create a budget to avoid surprises and have enough resources.
Next, declutter your home, source packing supplies, and make a packing plan. These steps will make your move smoother and more efficient. Decluttering reduces what you need to move, sourcing supplies protects your items, and a packing plan keeps you organized.
Decluttering
Start decluttering at least 8 weeks before moving day. Sort items into categories: keep, give away, and recycle/trash. An inventory will help you identify what you don’t need and make decluttering easier.
Get rid of unwanted items by gifting, donating, selling, or discarding them. A garage sale can help get rid of larger items and make some extra cash. This step reduces packing volume, cost, and complexity.
Sourcing Packing Supplies
Affordable or free packing supplies can significantly reduce moving expenses. Check neighborhood Facebook groups, local grocery stores, and liquor stores for materials. Liquor stores often have reinforced boxes perfect for fragile items.
Gather essential packing supplies like scissors, packing paper, bubble wrap, tape, and color markers. Free moving boxes can be found at supermarkets, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Ample packing materials and other packing materials ensure item security and protection.
Creating a Packing Plan
A detailed packing plan makes your move more manageable. Make an inventory of what’s moving. Pack in stages; start with less-used rooms and infrequent items 4 weeks before the move. Prioritize big items and items from storage and out-of-season items.
Pack important documents and valuables, then pack room by room. Label boxes and use bubble wrap for fragile items. This way nothing is missed and everything is packed systematically and safely.
Local Movers Research
Researching local moving companies is key to choosing a good and trustworthy mover. I would start at least 2 months before moving day to research local movers and make a decision. Look online and check out sites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau.
Beware of companies with no online presence or super low prices; these are red flags. Make sure the mover complies with local regulations and has transparent pricing and services.
We will go into checking online reviews, getting multiple quotes, and verifying licenses and insurance in detail.
Checking Online Reviews
Online reviews are a great way to measure the reliability and service of moving companies. Look at recent reviews for most current service. A high volume of positive reviews and good responses to complaints means a good mover.
Getting Multiple Quotes
Getting multiple quotes from different movers is key to making a decision. I’d get at least 3 quotes to compare services and watch out for extra fees.
Many movers will give you a free estimate over the phone, making it easy to get a few different estimates.
Verifying Licenses and Insurance
Choosing a licensed and insured mover is important for a smooth move. Verify state licensure and insurance info before hiring.
Ask for proof of insurance to make sure they are covered for liabilities.
Pre Move Logistics
Before moving day, managing logistics includes making the ultimate moving checklist so you don’t forget anything. Contact utility providers to schedule transfers and update your address to avoid service interruptions. Set a realistic budget to avoid surprises and see if you need extra permits.
As moving day approaches, confirm all logistics with your movers, including the date, time and any special instructions. We will cover utility transfers, notifying others and arranging child and pet care.
Utility Transfers
Scheduling utility transfers ensures service continuity. Arrange turn-off and turn on dates well in advance so utilities are ready before moving day. Confirm appointments for cable, internet and utility installations to avoid delays.
Keep records of utility switch-overs in case of mistakes and schedule new installations as soon as possible to avoid booking issues. This way you won’t have disruptions when you get to your new home.
Notify Others
Notify utility companies, banks, credit card companies and insurance providers of your move to transfer services and update your address. Change your address with USPS so mail gets forwarded to your new address.
And inform friends and family of your new address so you don’t get calls.
Child and Pet Care
Child and pet care reduces stress and makes the move smoother. Plan for them to stay with a trusted adult on moving day so they are safe and not a distraction.
Moving Day
Moving day can be chaotic, but with proper planning, it’s smooth and easy. Start early to avoid last minute craziness and stress. Designate a trusted person to oversee the move and make sure all logistics are taken care of.
Do calming activities and stay solution focused to stay calm. Have snacks and drinks on hand to keep energy up and show your movers some love with refreshments.
We will cover tips on starting early, coordinating with movers, and keeping essentials handy.
Early Start
Starting early prevents last-minute craziness and stress on moving day. By packing and organizing ahead of time, you will have everything in order and nothing will be missed. This proactive approach will allow you to tackle surprises and have a more relaxed moving day.
Remember, starting early will save you a lot of headaches.
Coordinating With Movers
Good communication with your movers will make the move smoother. Give them a quick tour of your new home when they arrive so they know where everything goes. Clear and specific instructions will avoid confusion and delays.
Make sure you are available for questions throughout the move so things run smoothly and efficiently.
Check out some of my moves with my clients and also Top Tips to Prepare for a Local Move to be even more prepared for your local move.
Essentials
During the packing process, an essentials box should have items you need as soon as you get to your new home, such as toiletries, medications, and basic cooking supplies. Common items are clothes for a few days, important documents, chargers and personal items.
Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to keep you energized throughout the move. Being prepared with essentials and snacks will reduce stress and make the transition to your new home smoother.
Settling Into Your New Home
When you get to your new home, start the settling process. Unpack essentials first so important items are accessible and you can feel at home fast. Introduce yourself to your neighbors to build community and friendships that last.
Explore your new neighborhood to get to know local amenities, parks, schools and services. We will cover unpacking strategically, meeting neighbors, and exploring your new neighborhood for a smooth transition.
Unpacking Strategically
Unpack one box at a time and organize as you go to avoid overwhelm and chaos. Prioritize essentials like toiletries, kitchen items and important documents for immediate access.
Organizing as you unpack will help the transition into your new home, and everything will have a place.
Meeting Your Neighbors
Meeting your neighbors is key to building relationships and feeling at home in the new home. Talking to neighbors will give you local knowledge and build community.
Small actions like introducing yourself or attending neighborhood events will go a long way to building a network of friends.
Exploring Your New Neighborhood
Getting to know local amenities is key to settling into your new neighborhood. Local amenities may be parks, grocery stores, restaurants, gyms, and libraries. Map out your new area to find essential services and recreational spots.
Use of local services like healthcare facilities, community centers, and public transport will help you integrate into your new community. Join community groups on social media to stay informed about local happenings and events.
Summary
Moving locally can be easy and stress-free with the right planning. By knowing the local move, choosing between DIY and professional movers, preparing well, researching moving companies, managing logistics, and settling into your new home strategically, you will be successful. Follow this ultimate moving checklist, and you’ll be settled in your new home and ready to start the next chapter of your life with ease and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a local move?
A local move is generally defined as relocating within a 50-mile radius. If you’re moving within that distance, it’s considered local!
How can I save money on a local move?
To save money on a local move, try doing it yourself, rent a moving truck, and gather free packing materials. These steps can really help keep costs down!
Why should I hire professional movers for a local move?
You should hire professional movers for a local move because they make the process easier and help protect your belongings from damage. It’s all about saving you time and stress!
What should I include in my essentials box for moving day?
Make sure your essentials box has toiletries, medications, basic cooking supplies, a change of clothes, important documents, and chargers. This way, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips when you arrive!
How can I make friends in my new neighborhood?
To make friends in your new neighborhood, focus on meeting your neighbors, joining local events, and exploring community amenities. These connections will help you settle in and build relationships easily.
