Long-Distance Moving Timeline

A long-distance move can be both exciting and challenging. As you plan your relocation to or from Music City, understanding the timeline of events is crucial for a smooth transition. The best long-distance movers in Nashville are back with another installment in our long-distance moving series.

Our moving pros have provided a realistic long-distance moving timeline to help you plan a move that’s a stress-free experience. Ready to prepare for the journey ahead?

Before the Move

3-4 Months Before: Research and Plan

As soon as you’ve decided on a date for the big move, it’s time to hit the ground running! The first step is researching reputable long-distance moving companies in Nashville. On top of learning what moving services they offer, consider factors like customer reviews, pricing, length in business, community involvement, and licensing. Gather a bunch of moving estimates to determine the best movers for your specific needs.

When you get a moving estimate with Move On, we nail down the arrival of your belongings to a specific day—not a range of potential dates like with some long-distance movers. All our long-distance estimates are binding, meaning that the price will not change, as long as the details of the job do not change. And if you also need to figure out long or short-term storage options in the new location, we can offer some recommendations if we know the area.

2-3 Months Before: Book Your Movers and Declutter

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, book your preferred long-distance moving company in Nashville. Make sure you communicate your moving date and any specific requirements you may have—including any specialty or fragile items. (We’re looking at you, jungle gym and grand piano!)

During this phase, you can also start decluttering and organizing your belongings. Create a sorting system and decide which items should be kept, donated, sold, or tossed. Fewer boxes means less time shuttling items from one place to the next.

1-2 Months Before: Create a Packing Plan

Ah yes, everyone’s least favorite part of moving! Creating a packing plan well in advance is key to a stress-free move. Collect your packing supplies (boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and packing paper, markers) and prioritize packing up the items you don’t use as much. You’ll also want to label your boxes so it’s easier to unpack later in your brand-new home.

2-4 Weeks Before: Finalize the Details

The big move is quickly approaching. Confirm your moving date with your long-distance movers. And before you leave your home for good, make sure you also take care of the minor details like:

• Scheduling, transferring, or canceling your utilities
• Forwarding your mail to the new address
• Updating your home or renters insurance
• Collecting and organizing all personal records (school, medical, etc.)
• Cancelling or transferring your gym membership

Begin packing, focusing on essential items, and creating an inventory list to keep track of your belongings.

1-2 Weeks Before: Complete Packing

By this stage, most of your belongings should be all packed up and ready to go. Pay extra attention to those fragile items and valuables, ensuring they are well-protected. And if there are any last-minute concerns that arise, make sure to communicate them with the long-distance movers.

When moving day rolls around, no one wants to hunt through boxes to find what you’re looking for. That’s why we recommend creating an overnight bag with a few essential items like a change of clothes and pajamas, toiletries, a towel and shower curtain, small electronics, and any snacks and water.

Your outfit and knowing what to wear can also make all the difference on moving day. Prepare a set of clothes a few days beforehand and remember that comfort is key!

Moving Day

On the day of the big move itself, stay organized and coordinate with the movers. Make sure they have clear instructions on any specific requirements you may have.

Before leaving, do a final walkthrough of your old home to check for any forgotten items—you don’t want to leave anything behind! Once everything is loaded, say goodbye to your old home and say hello to the new experiences ahead.

After the Move: Settling In and Unpacking

Upon arriving at your new home, take the time to settle in and familiarize yourself with the surroundings. It’s also important to note that movers are not mind readers! Make sure you’re on-site after the move so we can place all the furniture exactly where you want it in your new place.

A pro tip: start unpacking with the essentials and gradually work your way through the remaining boxes.

Moving long distances takes a lot of time, energy, and effort. But with careful planning and the assistance of reliable long-distance movers in Nashville—like Move On!—the moving process can be seamless and stress-free. With this helpful timeline, you’ll be well-prepared for each phase of your journey.

Moving is a big deal. Ready to make your Nashville move easy? Get an estimate from the moving professionals from Move On today!