How to Prepare For a Long-Distance Move to Franklin County, PA

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Are you thinking about moving to Franklin Country, Pennsylvania? Here is everything you need to prepare for a long-distance move to the keystone state.

Are you on your way to a new life in Franklin County, PA? Do you have a long move ahead of you and unsure how to map things out? If so, then you need to learn all that you can about how to prepare for a long-distance move.

While it might seem overwhelming at first, it will take place quicker than you imagine! All you have to do is be a bit proactive so that you can set yourself up for success.

See below for a guide on how to prepare for a long-distance move to Franklin County, Fulton County, or any surrounding area.

1. Create a Budget

If you're in the process of moving, then you likely have other costs to consider besides moving costs. Unless you inherited a house or owned one in Franklin County, PA already, there are things to think about such as closing costs, property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, renovations you wish to make, etc.

All of these costs can get messy. That's why we recommend that you start the moving process by creating a budget. It will help you stay accountable as you make all other decisions with your long-distance move. 

First, start by adding up your income and the amount you have saved (and are willing to use towards your move and home closing costs), then add up all of the costs you have.

What's left is the amount you have to use towards the move. There are a few things you'll want to think about for the move, such as:

  • Moving Supplies

  • Moving Trucks

  • Opening and Closing Utilities

  • Extra Moving Equipment (Furniture Dollies, Dollies, etc.)

  • Professional Movers

  • Car Transport Services

  • Cost of Gas

The list might depend on your move. Keep in mind that not all of these are essential, just recommendations to make your long-distance move that much easier.

2. Hire Long-Distance Movers

There are many people out there that forego hiring professional movers because they think it will save them a significant amount of money. 

While that might be true in terms of the upfront cost, let's break down a few key factors. A professional long-distance moving company will list out all of their costs in detail. The cost will cover such things as the cost per mile, time, and extend of service (packing, hauling, unloading).

If you're thinking of renting a moving truck and doing it yourself, you might not save as much money as you're hoping. Truck rental companies typically hide additional costs such as mileage, gas, time, etc. 

Here's the main question we implore you to ask yourself: "how much stuff do I have?"

If you have very few belongings, such as a few boxes and furniture pieces, then renting a moving truck should be an effective method. 

However, if you have a good amount of items, then we highly suggest that you hire professional movers. They can help expedite the process and get you on the road all the quicker.

Plus, you can use their experience to plan the best course of action and get to your newly-purchased house all the quicker. 

3. Create a List of Three

Now that you know how you'll be getting your belongings from your old house to your new house, it's time to figure out what to do with each of them. 

Start by grabbing a pen and paper, then drawing three separate columns and labeling them "move", "sell", and "donate". 

Take the time to walk into each room and inspect all of your belongings that you're on the fence about. Place each item into one of three categories, then present your list to the rest of your family and see if they agree.

A nice side note: selling a few items can help you gain money for the move! Donating items will help you make more room and lessen the burden of the move. 

We recommend starting this list as far out from the moving day as possible. That way, you'll have time to consider certain belongings.

4. Consider a Car Transporter

Contrary to popular belief, you aren't stuck with having to drive your car all the way up to Franklin County, PA for your big move. 

You might consider hiring a door-to-door car transporter that can pick your car up and drop it off at your new home in PA.  This is especially helpful if you have a car that's a bit older, needs repairs, or has high mileage on the odometer reading.

That way, you and your family can plan out a time to fly to your new Franklin County, PA home and meet the car transporter and professional movers at your property.

5. Take the Time to Pack Accordingly

Last but not least, you want to give yourself ample time to pack your items. Even if you're hiring professional movers, packing things yourself can help you save a few bucks.

Start by organizing items in segments. This will help you figure out ways to pack boxes efficiently without making them too heavy. 

Break them up by days. For example, you can take a day or two to pack up a certain room to keep yourself motivated without wearing yourself out.

Prepare for Your Long-Distance Move to Franklin County, PA

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on how to prepare for a long-distance move to Franklin County, PA, be sure to use this information efficiently.

Be sure to read this article for more information on how to save money for a house if you're still in the process of buying your future home in Fulton or Franklin County.

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.