A long-distance move means lots of planning, including determining how to best move yourself and your family from your old home to your new one. While the expert movers and packers at Atlas are ready to bring your belongings to their destination, you need to figure out how to get there yourself. Will you drive, fly or take a train?
Driving
Driving to your new home offers the greatest amount of personal freedom. However, there are also some drawbacks to driving:
Benefits of driving
- You make you own schedule and can adjust it en route if necessary.
- Although traffic jams can delay you, you won't have to deal with a canceled flight or train.
- You have the most cargo capacity out of the three options, especially if you use a trailer.
- If you're transporting pets, plants and/or other sensitive belongings, a car may be your only option.
- You have freedom over when, how frequently and for how long you stop on your way.
- You don't need to arrange to transport your car to your new home.
Drawbacks of driving
- Gas prices can fluctuate greatly, and their financial impact is greater with a car full of people and belongings - especially when pulling a trailer.
- Any breakdowns, flat tires or other maintenance needs will have to be handled on the road, potentially at a significant cost.
- The time spent on the road is significantly longer than flights to many long-distance destinations and can also take longer than train travel.
- You must factor in the cost of several meals, lodging and other incidentals.
Taking a train
A train offers on-the-ground transit while eliminating the need to drive your own car. Keep these advantages and drawbacks in mind:
Benefits of a train
- It's generally a more relaxing experience, when compared to driving.
- This option often offers more room and amenities, such as dining cars, than airplanes.
- Service is usually strong between large urban areas.
- Traveling via train is typically faster than a car.
- There is a more simple arrival and departure process as compared with flying.
- It's often, although not always, the least-expensive option.
- The majority cost of the trip, the ticket, is presented upfront.
Drawbacks of a train
- There is limited cargo space.
- Service to less-developed areas isn't guaranteed.
- Speed is highly variable.
- Delays are possible and out of your control.
- You may need to rent a car to finish your trip, which can be more difficult at a train station than an airport.
Flying
A flight is usually your fastest choice, but there are other factors to consider as well:
Benefits of flying
- It's the fastest option by far, in most instances.
- There are a variety of carriers and flight options - and therefore prices - to choose from.
- Direct flights are available between most major and some midsize metropolitan areas.
- There's a reduced need for spending on food, lodging and other needs due to the speed of travel.
- You can relatively easily arrange last-mile transport to your new home.
Drawbacks of flying
- Generally, this is the most expensive choice.
- You'll have limited cargo capacity and personal space during travel.
- You may not be able or want to bring your pets on a plane, and other items, like large plants, can't or shouldn't be brought at all.
- There is the potential for delays that are out of your control.
- Managing pets and children in an airport can be complicated and difficult.
Every form of transportation has its advantages and drawbacks. Keep these qualities in mind as you plan your move to get the best result possible for your unique needs. And don't forget to get in touch with the expert movers and packers at Atlas!