Moving to a new home, especially over a long distance, can be both exciting and daunting for families with children. With proper planning and organization, you can make the process smoother and less overwhelming. One of the first steps is to hire a premium moving company like Atlas® Van Lines. Investing in a high-quality moving company that offers comprehensive services, including packing, transportation, and unpacking, can make a significant difference. This allows you to focus on your family and other important aspects of the move. Here are 5 essential tips and tricks to help you prepare for your long-distance move.

1. Planning Ahead

Creating a timeline is crucial for a successful move, especially when you have kids, as it helps you stay organized and ensures all necessary tasks are completed on time. Start by outlining all the tasks you need to complete before the moving day. Begin with packing, which involves sorting through your belongings, decluttering, and packing items in an organized manner. Hiring movers can ensure a smooth, efficient, and worry-free moving experience, handled by experienced professionals. Additionally, notify utility companies about your move to ensure that services like electricity, water, and internet are set up at your new home and disconnected at your old one. Other important tasks include updating your address with banks, subscriptions, and other essential services, and preparing an essentials box with items you'll need immediately upon arrival. By following a detailed timeline, you can manage your move efficiently and reduce stress. For more detailed guidance, check out our moving day checklist.

2. Packing Strategies

Decluttering is a great first step when it comes to packing for families with kids, as it helps streamline your belongings and reduce the amount of stuff you need to move. Start by sorting through toys, clothes, and other items, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. This process not only lightens your load but also makes packing more manageable and organized. Encourage your children to participate in this activity, turning it into a fun and educational experience about sharing and letting go of unneeded items. Once you've decluttered, use quality packing materials, such as sturdy boxes and bubble wrap, to protect your items during the move. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, which will make unpacking at your new home much more efficient and less stressful. By taking these steps, you can ensure a smoother and more organized moving experience, creating a positive transition for the entire family.

3. Managing Logistics

Coordinating with your movers well in advance is essential for smooth move. Confirm the dates, times, and any special requirements to ensure everything goes smoothly. If you're driving to your new location, plan your route and accommodation ahead of time to avoid unexpected issues. When you move with Atlas, you can use the customer portal to track your move in real-time, providing updates on the status of your belongings and a detailed timeline. This portal keeps you informed and in control, ensuring a seamless and worry-free moving experience. Clear communication and thorough planning will help you stay on schedule and reduce stress throughout the moving process. 

4. Settling In

Once you arrive at your new home, focus on unpacking essential rooms first, like the kitchen and bedrooms, to settle in quickly and comfortably. Setting up the kitchen allows you to prepare meals, while arranging the bedrooms ensures a good night's sleep. Take some time to explore your new area and familiarize yourself with local amenities such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and parks. Adding personal touches like family photos and decorations can make your new environment feel more like home. Establishing a daily routine and introducing yourself to neighbors will help you feel more settled and connected in your new community.

5. Reach Out for Help

If you need help with your next move, reach out to our team at Atlas for a free quote. The Atlas Van Lines Agent Network provides a range of customized services to cater to all your moving needs. Our friendly representatives can assist you in choosing the best services for your family's move, including packing, transporting, and setting up your new home. We promise a stress-free, high-quality moving experience with a company people have trusted for over 75 years. Let us take care of everything, so you and your family can focus on starting this exciting new chapter comfortably and smoothly.