Best Way to Move Long Distance: 10 Must-Know Tips for a Smooth, Stress-Free Move

Moving to a new city—or even across the country—can be exciting, but let’s be honest: it can also feel overwhelming. Between packing, planning, and figuring out how to get everything from point A to point B, there’s a lot to think about. The best way to move long distance isn’t just about finding a truck or getting the cheapest deal. It’s about staying organized, avoiding stress, and trusting the right people with your stuff. These 10 tips will help you get through your move with fewer headaches and more peace of mind.

The Best Way to Move Long Distance Starts with a Plan

Long-distance moves don’t have to be chaotic. The best way to move long distance is to break it down step by step—and it all starts here.

1. Start Early

Why does starting early matter? Long-distance moves involve a lot more steps than just tossing things into boxes. You have to coordinate schedules, compare moving companies, transfer utilities, update your address, and possibly even plan overnight stays if your move takes more than a day. Waiting until the last minute can lead to missed details, higher costs, and extra stress.

That’s why we recommend starting your moving prep at least eight weeks before your move date. It might seem early, but it gives you time to tackle each task in smaller, more manageable pieces.

What should I do first?
Begin with a simple moving checklist. This helps you keep track of important steps and deadlines. Your checklist might include:

• Researching and booking a moving company
• Sorting and donating unwanted items
• Gathering packing supplies
• Changing your address with the post office
• Notifying utility providers and service companies
• Scheduling time off work for your move

Pro tip: Print your list or use a digital checklist app. Crossing off tasks one by one is super satisfying—and helps you stay focused.

2. Get Quotes from Moving Companies

Do I really need to talk to more than one company? Yes! Getting quotes from at least three licensed moving companies is one of the best ways to move long distance without running into trouble. Prices can vary a lot between companies, and not all movers offer the same level of service or experience. Comparing quotes helps you understand what’s included—and spot any red flags.

What should I ask for in a quote?
Ask for a written, itemized quote that breaks down the cost of the move. This should include things like:

• Estimated weight or volume of your items
• Distance of the move
• Labor and fuel charges
• Optional services like packing or storage
• Any fees for stairs, elevators, or special handling

A reputable moving company will send someone to do an in-home or virtual walkthrough. Be cautious if a company only gives you a price over the phone without asking for details.

How do I know if a company is reliable? Look for movers that are licensed and insured. If you’re moving out of state, they should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. Check their reviews on trusted sites like Google or the Better Business Bureau. A few bad reviews aren’t a dealbreaker—but patterns of complaints are.

Watch out for low-ball estimates. If a quote seems much lower than the others, ask why. Some less reputable movers use low prices to get your business, then add unexpected charges later. Stick with companies that are upfront, honest, and clear about what’s included.

3. Cut Down What You’re Moving

Why should I declutter before a move? The more you move, the more you’ll pay. Long-distance movers often charge by weight or volume, so it literally pays to lighten your load. Plus, getting rid of things you no longer use makes packing and unpacking so much easier.

What should I get rid of?
Go room by room and ask yourself a few questions about each item:

• Have I used this in the last year?
• Would I buy this again if I didn’t already own it?
• Does this item still fit my lifestyle or space?

If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go.

Where should I take unwanted items?
You’ve got a few options:

• Donate gently used clothes, furniture, and housewares to local charities or thrift stores.
• Sell items online through Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or a garage sale.
• Recycle or toss anything that’s broken, expired, or can’t be reused.

What if I’m not sure what I’ll need in my new home? If you’re downsizing or moving somewhere with a different layout, it can be tough to decide what to keep. In that case, consider short-term storage. U & Me Moving and Storage offers secure storage options that give you time to figure it out without feeling rushed.

4. Choose the Right Moving Services

Not every move is the same, and not everyone needs full-service movers. Some people just need help loading the truck. Others want the company to handle everything—packing, moving, and even storage.

At U & Me Moving and Storage, we’ve helped families across Florida with every kind of move. Whether you need just a little help or full support from start to finish, we’ve got your back.

5. Label Your Boxes and Make a List

Why is labeling so important? When you’re unpacking in a brand-new home—especially after a long-distance move—the last thing you want to do is dig through dozens of boxes trying to find your coffee maker or favorite sweatshirt. That’s why labeling your boxes clearly is one of the smartest long distance moving tips out there.

How should I label my boxes?
Write the room name and a short description of what’s inside on the top and at least one side of each box. For example:

• Kitchen – Pots & Pans
• Living Room – Books & Games
• Bedroom – Clothes – Winter

Use a bold marker and make your writing large enough to read at a glance. You can even use colored tape or stickers to color-code boxes by room. This helps your movers place everything in the right spot and makes unpacking faster.

What about a box list or inventory? For extra organization (especially on long-distance moves), create a simple inventory list. This can be a spreadsheet or a checklist on paper. Number each box and write down what’s in it. You don’t have to go overboard—just enough detail to know what’s where.

Why does this help? If something goes missing or gets damaged, having a record of your belongings makes it easier to file an insurance claim or locate specific items. It also helps you keep track of valuable or fragile things during the move.

6. Know What You Can’t Pack

Can I just pack everything I own into the moving truck? Not exactly. Some items are not allowed in moving trucks for safety or legal reasons. Others are just better off staying with you.

What items can’t go in the truck?
Here are a few common things moving companies typically won’t accept:

• Flammable or hazardous items – Things like propane tanks, gasoline, paint, bleach, and certain cleaning supplies can pose serious risks during transport.
• Perishable food – Anything that can spoil, leak, or attract pests should be used up or tossed before moving day.
• Plants – Some states have restrictions on bringing plants across state lines due to pest control laws. Plus, plants can be hard to keep alive during a long move.
• Important documents or personal valuables – Keep things like passports, social security cards, checkbooks, cash, medication, and jewelry with you during the move.

What should I do with these items?
Start by asking your moving company for a list of restricted items. Most professional movers will provide one. If you’re not sure about something, just ask. For personal items, pack a separate bag or small box you’ll carry yourself.

7. Pack Smart to Protect Your Stuff

Is packing different for a long-distance move?
Yes—and here’s why. When you’re moving locally, your things might only be on a truck for a few hours. But with a long-distance move, your belongings will be on the road longer and could be moved between trucks or stored temporarily.

That means your packing has to be extra sturdy to handle the journey.

How should I pack fragile items?

• Wrap glassware, dishes, and other breakables in bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Use dish pack boxes for extra protection, especially for kitchen items.
• Fill in empty space inside the boxes with towels, clothing, or packing peanuts to prevent items from shifting around.

What about furniture and larger items?

• Cover furniture with moving blankets or pads to prevent scratches.
• Disassemble large pieces like bed frames or tables to make them easier to transport. Keep screws and hardware in labeled bags taped to the furniture.
• Use stretch wrap to secure drawers and cushions.

Are there any packing tools that help?
Definitely! Stock up on these must-haves:

• Heavy-duty moving boxes
• Packing tape (get more than you think you’ll need)
• Permanent markers
• Zip-top bags for small parts
• Bubble wrap and packing paper
• Furniture blankets or old sheets

Why does this matter so much? Because once your belongings are on the truck, you won’t be able to check on them until they arrive. Packing the right way means less chance of damage—and fewer worries along the way. It’s one of the best ways to move long distance with confidence.

8. Understand Insurance Options

Do I really need moving insurance? Accidents are rare, but they can happen. Even with the most careful movers, things can get lost or damaged during a long-distance move. That’s why it’s important to know exactly what kind of protection comes with your move—and whether you might want to add more coverage.

What’s included in basic coverage? Most moving companies are required to offer Released Value Protection, which is the most basic level of coverage. Here’s the catch: it only covers up to 60 cents per pound of damaged or lost items. So if your 10-pound flat-screen TV gets broken, you’d only get $6. That’s probably not going to replace it.

What are my other options? You can ask about Full Value Protection, which offers more complete coverage. If something is lost, damaged, or destroyed during the move, the moving company is responsible for either repairing it, replacing it, or offering a cash settlement based on the item’s current value.

Is third-party insurance worth it?
If you have a lot of high-value or fragile items, it might be a good idea. Some insurance companies offer separate policies that cover things like electronics, jewelry, or art that may not be fully protected under a mover’s standard coverage.

How do I choose the right coverage?
Ask your moving company (like U & Me Moving and Storage) to walk you through the options. Be honest about what you’re moving, what it’s worth, and how much peace of mind you want. A little extra coverage could save you a big headache down the road.

9. Be Ready on Moving Day

What should I do the night before the move? Try to have everything packed and organized the night before so you’re not rushing the morning of your move. Label your boxes, tape them securely, and stack them in a way that’s easy for the movers to access.

What should I keep with me?
Pack a personal bag with the essentials you’ll need during the move or right after you arrive. Think of it like an overnight bag or carry-on for a flight. Include things like:

• A change of clothes
• Phone charger
• Toothbrush and toiletries
• Medications
• Important documents (like your lease, ID, or moving contract)
• Snacks and water
• Small tools (just in case you need to put furniture back together)

Why is a final walkthrough important? Before the movers leave, do one last walk through your old home. Check closets, cabinets, drawers, the garage, and even the attic or basement if you have one. It’s easy to forget things—especially when the space is already empty.

How should I handle the movers? Be friendly and available in case they have questions. If you’ve labeled everything clearly, they’ll be able to work efficiently, but they may check in with you about fragile items or furniture. Stay nearby, but let them do what they do best.

10. Stay Flexible

What if something goes wrong during the move? Even the most carefully planned move can hit a few snags. Long-distance moves often involve factors outside anyone’s control—like bad weather, road closures, or unexpected delays. It can be frustrating, but try to stay flexible and remember that this is part of the process.

How can I stay calm? Keep in regular contact with your movers. A good moving company will communicate any delays or changes along the way. Ask for a direct contact person so you’re not left in the dark.

What can I do if I arrive before my things? It’s not uncommon for your moving truck to arrive a day or two after you do, especially with long-distance moves. That’s where your essentials bag comes in handy. Make sure you also plan ahead for temporary accommodations or staying with friends or family if needed.

Why choose a mover you can trust? When you work with an experienced company like U & Me Moving and Storage, you don’t have to worry as much. We’ve been helping families move since 1923—and we’ve seen it all. If something doesn’t go as planned, we know how to adjust and keep your move on track.

Long Distance Moving Tips You’ll Be Glad You Knew

When you’re planning a big move—especially across the state or country—it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling a hundred things at once. That’s why it helps to keep things simple. Out of all the long distance moving tips you’ll hear, the most important ones boil down to three key things: get organized, trust the right people, and don’t try to do everything on your own.

Let’s break that down a bit.

1. Get Organized Early
   Trying to figure everything out at the last minute is a recipe for stress. Having a plan—and sticking to it—makes a huge difference. That means creating a checklist, setting deadlines, and staying ahead of the game with packing, paperwork, and communication.

Why it matters: When you’re organized, you’re less likely to forget important tasks like updating your address, switching over utilities, or packing essentials in a bag you keep with you.

2. Ask for Help (Really!)
   We get it—some people like to do everything themselves. But with a long-distance move, you’re not just shifting boxes. You’re moving your entire life. There’s a lot that can go wrong if you try to handle it all alone.

The best way to move long distance is by working with professionals who know what they’re doing. From navigating cross-country routes to protecting fragile items during a long haul, experienced movers can save you time, money, and stress.

3. Choose Movers You Can Trust
   This one is big. Not all moving companies are the same. Some cut corners, show up late, or surprise you with extra fees. Others don’t have the experience to handle long-distance logistics—and that can lead to delays, damaged items, or worse.

Why Trusted Movers Are the Best Way to Move Long Distance

That’s where U & Me Moving and Storage stands out.

We’ve been helping families and businesses move since 1923. As a family-owned company, we believe in doing things the right way—with care, communication, and attention to detail. When you choose us, you’re not just hiring a moving company. You’re working with a team that treats your belongings with the same respect we’d give our own.

Whether you’re moving across Florida or across the country, we’ll be with you every step of the way. From packing to loading to storage and delivery, we make sure nothing gets overlooked—and nothing gets left behind.

Our Promise:

• No hidden fees
• Licensed and experienced movers
• Customized moving plans that fit your needs and budget
• Short-term and long-term storage options if you need flexibility
• A stress-free experience built on trust and over a century of expertise

Moving long distance can feel like a big deal—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When you stay organized, know your options, and choose a mover who has your back, the process becomes a lot smoother.

Want to learn more about how we can help? Check out our long-distance moving services or give us a call today. We’re here to help you move forward—comfortably, confidently, and without the stress.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Way to Move Long Distance?

The best way to move long distance is to prepare early, work with movers you trust, and stay flexible along the way. With the right plan (and the right team), your move can be smooth, affordable, and even a little exciting.

Need help getting started? Check out our long-distance moving services or give us a call. We’re here to make your move easier, wherever life is taking you next.