The Brutal Truth About Packing Your Life Into Boxes Without Losing Your Sanity or Your Shirt

Long Distance Moving Tips That Actually Work

Planning a long distance move can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with too many pieces.

The brutal truth about packing your life into boxes without losing your sanity or your shirt is that it takes more than just stuffing things in containers and hoping for the best.

You need a real plan.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we've seen it all - from last-minute panic packing to budget-busting mistakes that could have been avoided.

Our team of moving experts, led by founder Jae Burnham, wants to help you avoid these common moving pitfalls that leave people stressed out and broke.

Are you worrying about how to pack your whole life up and move it hundreds or thousands of miles away?

You're not alone.

Many people feel overwhelmed when planning a long distance move.

But what if I told you there's a better way?

A way that won't wreck your mind or your wallet?

Imagine walking into your new home, with all your stuff there, in one piece, and your bank account still healthy. Sounds nice, right?

That's exactly what we help people do every day at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.

Why Most People Get Long Distance Moving All Wrong

Let's get real.

Most folks tackle moving like they're running from a burning building - grab whatever you can and GO!

But that's exactly what leads to broken items, forgotten belongings, and giant unexpected costs.

The problem begins way before moving day.

It starts with not knowing how far in advance to plan.

A successful long distance move needs at least 8 weeks of planning. Anything less and you're playing catch-up from day one.

Think about it.

When was the last time you tried to do anything big without planning? Probably didn't work out too well. Moving across the country is no different.

Here's another mistake: underestimating how much stuff you actually have.

People look around their house and think, "That's not so much." Then they start packing and realize they could fill a small warehouse.

And don't even get me started on hiring the wrong moving company.

Choose poorly, and you might end up with damaged furniture, missing boxes, or extra fees that make your eyes water.

How to Plan Your Long Distance Move Like a Pro

The best long distance moves start with a solid plan.

Here's what to do way before moving day:

8 Weeks Before Moving: The Foundation

Start by making a big moving calendar.

Mark your moving date and work backward.

This keeps you on track and stops the last-minute panic that costs money and causes stress.

Click here for our epic 8-week, 72-point Moving Checklist

Now is also the perfect time to start researching moving companies.

A good company books up fast - especially in busy summer months.

Ask each company these questions:

1. Do you have a USDOT number and proper licensing?

2. Can you provide a detailed written estimate?

3. What's your policy on delivery dates?

4. What additional fees might I face?

5. How do you handle valuable or fragile items?

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we're always happy to answer these questions.

Our USDOT licensing is up-to-date, we provide clear written estimates, and we pride ourselves on sticking to delivery promises.

Plus, we have special protocols for handling your treasured items.

This is also when you should start collecting free boxes from local stores.

Why pay for something you can get for free? Grocery stores, bookstores, and liquor stores often have sturdy boxes they're happy to give away.

6 Weeks Before: Start Decluttering

Here's a brutal truth: moving stuff you don't need is just burning money.

Every extra box costs in packing materials, space on the truck, and movers' time.

Go room by room and make three piles:

• Keep

• Sell/Donate

• Trash

Be ruthless!

That bread maker you used once five years ago?

That coat that hasn't fit since college?

Let them go.

For everything in the "sell" pile, consider a garage sale or online marketplace.

That extra cash can help offset moving costs.

And remember - the cheapest way to move long distance is to move less stuff.

4 Weeks Before: Gathering Supplies

Now's the time to get serious about packing supplies.

Beyond boxes, you'll need:

• Packing tape (lots of it)

• Bubble wrap

• Packing paper

• Markers for labeling

• Plastic wrap for furniture

• Mattress bags

Pro tip: color-code your boxes by room. It makes unpacking so much easier!

Start packing things you rarely use.

Holiday decorations, off-season clothes, and books are perfect to pack early.

Label each box with its contents AND the room it belongs in.

2 Weeks Before: Picking Up Speed

By now, you should be packing regularly.

Focus on non-essentials while keeping your daily-use items accessible.

This is also when you should:

• Transfer utilities to your new address

• Change your address with USPS

• Notify important contacts of your move

• Refill prescriptions

• Get your car serviced if you're driving to your new home

1 Week Before: The Final Countdown

Now it's crunch time!

Pack everything except what you'll need for the final week.

Create an "essentials box" with items you'll need immediately at your new place:

• Toilet paper

• Shower curtain

• Basic cleaning supplies

• Paper plates and plastic utensils

• Phone chargers

• Basic tools for reassembling furniture

Take photos of how electronics are connected before unplugging them.

You'll thank yourself later!

Packing Strategies That Save Money and Prevent Damage

The way you pack can make or break your moving budget and your belongings.

Let's talk smart packing:

How to Pack Fragile Items Without Heartbreak

Nothing's worse than unpacking broken keepsakes.

Here's how to avoid that:

For dishes: Pack them vertically, like records, not stacked. They're stronger on their edges. Wrap each one in packing paper and use plenty of cushioning.

For glasses: Stuff paper inside each glass, then wrap the outside. Place them top-down in small boxes with plenty of padding.

For framed art and mirrors: Use specialty boxes if possible. If not, sandwich them between pieces of cardboard and mark them clearly as fragile.

Electronics need special care too. If possible, pack them in their original boxes. If not, use plenty of bubble wrap and avoid overpacking boxes.

Heavy Items: Don't Break Your Back (or Your Boxes)

Books are deceptively heavy. Pack them in small boxes so they're manageable to lift. Mix in some lighter items like pillows or towels to balance the weight.

Distribute weight evenly in boxes. Put heavier items at the bottom, lighter ones on top.

And please - don't overpack boxes! If you can't lift it comfortably, neither can the movers. Better to use more boxes than risk injury or damaged goods.

Furniture: Disassemble When Possible

Take apart beds, tables, and other large furniture. Keep all screws and small parts in labeled bags taped to the furniture pieces.

Wrap upholstered furniture in plastic wrap to protect from dirt and damage. Remove legs from sofas and tables when possible.

For wooden furniture, don't wrap it directly in plastic - this can trap moisture and damage finishes. Use moving blankets instead.

Special Packing Considerations

Some items need extra attention during a long distance move:

Moving with Pets: Keeping Furry Friends Happy

Moving is stressful for pets too!

Keep their routine as normal as possible leading up to moving day.

For travel day, pack a pet essentials bag with:

• Food and water bowls

• Enough food for several days

• Medications

• Favorite toys

• Leash and collar

• Litter box for cats

• Bedding

If flying, check airline requirements well in advance. If driving, plan for frequent stops and never leave pets in a hot car.

Moving Plants Long Distance

Many plants don't survive long moves.

Consider giving away larger plants to friends or family.

For plants you're keeping:

• Transfer them to plastic pots (lighter and won't break)

• Stop watering a few days before the move so soil is less messy

• Cover with plastic bags to protect from cold and prevent soil spills

• Keep them in a temperature-controlled environment during the move

Valuable and Sentimental Items

Some things are irreplaceable. For truly precious items, consider moving them yourself rather than putting them on the truck.

Important documents like birth certificates, passports, and financial records should always travel with you, not in the moving truck.

Jewelry, family heirlooms, and expensive collections should get special packing attention or be transported personally.

The Truth About Moving Costs and How to Save Money

Let's talk money.

Long distance moves typically cost between $4,000 and $10,000 depending on distance and how much stuff you're moving.

But there are ways to save:

Click here to get my book "Save Money Moving" from Amazon

Timing Is Everything

Moving during peak season (May-September) costs more. If possible, schedule your move during fall or winter months when rates are lower.

The same goes for days of the week - weekends cost more than weekdays. A Tuesday move will almost always be cheaper than a Saturday one.

Getting Accurate Quotes

Always get at least three quotes from different moving companies. Make sure they do an in-home or video assessment - never trust quotes given sight unseen.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we provide detailed, transparent quotes with no hidden fees. We'll explain every charge so there are no surprises on moving day.

DIY vs. Hiring Pros: The Real Cost Comparison

Sure, renting a truck and doing it yourself seems cheaper on paper.

But have you factored in:

• Truck rental

• Gas (big trucks get terrible mileage!)

• Hotels along the way

• Food during travel

• Time off work

• Potential injuries

• Replacing damaged items

When you add it all up, the DIY approach often costs nearly as much as hiring professionals - with ten times the stress!

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Some moving companies hit you with surprise fees after your stuff is loaded. Watch out for:

• Long carry fees (when the truck can't park close to your door)

• Stair fees

• Elevator fees

• Bulky item fees

• Storage fees if your new place isn't ready

• Expedited delivery fees

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we discuss all potential fees upfront. No surprises, no stress.

Packing Your Electronics Without a Technical Disaster

In our digital age, properly packing electronics is crucial:

Computers and Laptops

Always back up important data before your move. Accidents happen!

Remove batteries when possible to prevent corrosion or power-on during transit.

If you have original boxes, use them. If not, wrap devices in anti-static bubble wrap (regular bubble wrap can create static electricity that damages components).

Entertainment Systems

Take photos of how everything is connected before disconnecting. You'll be thankful when setting up in your new place.

Label all cords clearly. Use colored tape or labels to match cords with their devices.

Remove discs from players, cartridges from game systems, and ink cartridges from printers.

Kitchen Appliances

Empty, clean, and dry all appliances before packing. Moisture can cause mold during transit.

Tape down moving parts like refrigerator shelves, microwave trays, and blender pitchers.

If possible, pack small appliances in their original boxes. They were designed to protect the item perfectly.

The Emotional Side of Packing Up Your Life

Let's be honest - moving isn't just physically demanding, it's emotionally draining too.

Dealing with Sentimental Items

That box of greeting cards from the last 20 years? Your child's first drawing? These things matter.

Take time to properly pack truly sentimental items. Don't rush this process.

Consider taking photos of bulky sentimental items you can't keep. This preserves the memory without the space requirements.

Helping Kids Through the Move

Children often struggle with moves.

Help them by:

• Involving them in age-appropriate packing tasks

• Letting them decorate their own boxes

• Keeping their favorite toys accessible until the last minute

• Talking positively about the adventure ahead

Pack a special box of comfort items for immediate unpacking at the new house.

Taking Care of Yourself During the Process

Remember to:

• Schedule breaks

• Stay hydrated

• Get enough sleep

• Accept help when offered

• Maintain some normal routines amid the chaos

Unpacking Strategies: The Other Half of Moving

A good unpacking plan is just as important as a good packing plan:

First Day Essentials

Unpack in this order:

1. Kids' rooms (if you have children) to help them feel settled

2. Bedroom basics so you have a place to sleep

3. Bathroom necessities

4. Kitchen basics

5. Everything else

Creating a Logical Unpacking Timeline

Don't try to unpack everything in one day!

Set realistic goals like:

• Day 1: Essentials only

• Week 1: Primary living spaces

• Month 1: Everything else

When to Get Help Unpacking

Consider hiring help for unpacking too, especially if you're:

• Moving for a job and need to start work right away

• Moving with small children who need attention

• Dealing with physical limitations

• Simply feeling overwhelmed

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving offers unpacking services too! We can help set up your new home just the way you want it.

How Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving Makes Long Distance Moving Easy

Founded by YouTube influencer and published author Jae Burnham in January 2024, Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has quickly become one of the most trusted moving companies around. With over 75 five-star reviews across Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper, our reputation speaks for itself.

Our Full-Service Approach

We handle every aspect of your move:

• Professional packing services

• Loading and transportation

• Furniture disassembly and reassembly

• Special item handling

• Unpacking services

• Packing supply provision

• Storage solutions if needed

What Sets Us Apart

Unlike other moving companies, we:

• Provide guaranteed delivery dates

• Offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees

• Employ fully trained, background-checked movers

• Use top-quality equipment and trucks

• Provide real-time tracking of your belongings

• Offer comprehensive insurance options

Real Customer Success Stories

Jane from Detroit writes: "After getting quotes from three companies, I chose Mr. BigStuff because they were the most transparent about costs. My move from Detroit to Phoenix went perfectly - everything arrived on time and nothing was damaged. The crew was professional and friendly too!"

Mike from Chicago says: "Moving my family of five across country seemed impossible until we called Mr. BigStuff. They handled everything from packing to unpacking. Worth every penny for the stress they saved us!"

Common Questions About Long Distance Moving

Let's address some frequently asked questions about long distance moving:

How far in advance should I plan for a long distance move?

Ideally, start planning 8-12 weeks before your move date. This gives you time to research moving companies, gather supplies, and pack systematically without rushing.

What's the cheapest way to move long distance?

The cheapest method depends on how much you're moving. For a small apartment, renting a small moving container might be most economical. For larger homes, a full-service mover often provides the best value when you consider all costs (including your time and potential damages).

How do I pack belongings properly for a long distance move?

Use quality boxes, wrap fragile items individually, distribute weight evenly, label everything clearly, and don't overpack boxes. Pack room by room and keep an inventory list.

How do I choose a reputable long distance moving company?

Look for proper licensing (USDOT number), check reviews on multiple platforms, get detailed written estimates, ask about insurance coverage, and verify how long they've been in business.

What items should I not take on a long distance move?

Hazardous materials (cleaning supplies, paint, aerosols), perishable foods, plants (many states have restrictions), and items of extreme personal or financial value that you can transport yourself.

How much does a long distance move typically cost?

For a 2-3 bedroom home moving 1,000 miles, expect to pay $4,000-$8,000 with a full-service mover. Costs vary based on distance, weight of belongings, time of year, and services required.

How can I track my belongings during a long distance move?

Reputable companies like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving provide tracking systems that let you monitor your shipment. Ask about this service when booking your move.

Will movers guarantee a delivery date for long distance moves?

Some do, some don't. At Mr. BigStuff, we offer guaranteed delivery dates for your peace of mind. Always get delivery promises in writing.

What additional fees might long distance movers charge?

Possible additional fees include long carry charges, stair fees, elevator fees, storage fees, and charges for handling special items like pianos or safes. Ask for a complete list of potential fees upfront.

How do I prepare pets for a long distance move?

Visit your vet before moving, keep routines consistent, use familiar bedding and toys during travel, and consider anxiety aids if your pet is particularly stressed by change.

What documents and paperwork should I organize before moving?

Gather medical records, school transcripts, birth certificates, insurance policies, financial documents, and moving contracts. Keep these with you rather than packing them.

How do I handle valuable or fragile items during a long distance move?

For irreplaceable valuables, consider moving them yourself. For fragile items, use proper packing techniques with plenty of cushioning, and clearly mark boxes as "FRAGILE."

What's the best timeline to follow for a long distance move?

Follow our 8-week timeline:

• 8 weeks: Research movers, start collecting supplies

• 6 weeks: Begin decluttering and selling unwanted items

• 4 weeks: Start packing non-essentials

• 2 weeks: Handle address changes and utility transfers

• 1 week: Pack most household items

• Final days: Pack essentials box, prepare for moving day

The Final Countdown: Moving Day Success

When moving day arrives, be ready:

Before the Movers Arrive

• Finish all packing except last-minute essentials

• Clear pathways for easy furniture removal

• Remove anything from walls that the movers aren't packing

• Have payment ready according to your contract

• Prepare drinks and snacks (happy movers = careful movers!)

During the Loading Process

• Be available to answer questions

• Do a final walk-through of every room, opening all drawers and cabinets

• Document the condition of valuable items before they're loaded

• Keep important papers, medications, and valuables with you

Final Steps Before Leaving

• Check all closets, cabinets, the attic, garage, and basement

• Turn off lights, lock windows, adjust thermostat

• Leave a note with your contact information for the new residents

• Take one last look - there's always something forgotten!

Your New Beginning Awaits

Moving long distance marks a significant life change.

While the process can be challenging, the new opportunities waiting at your destination make it worthwhile.

With proper planning, the right moving partner, and the tips we've shared, you can make your long distance move a success - without losing your sanity or your shirt.

Ready for a Stress-Free Long Distance Move? Call Mr. BigStuff Today!

Why struggle through your move alone when our team of experts is ready to help?

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we take the stress out of long distance moving so you can focus on the excitement of your new beginning.

With our transparent pricing, guaranteed delivery dates, and exceptional service (just check our 75+ five-star reviews!), we make sure your belongings arrive safely, on time, and within budget.

Don't leave your precious belongings and peace of mind to chance. Call us today at (517) 948-0894 or visit https://justthebigstuff.com to get your free, no-obligation quote.

Move bigger. Move better. Move with Mr. BigStuff!

Founded by YouTube influencer and author Jae Burnham, Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has quickly become the go-to moving service for people who want their long distance move handled right the first time.