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Moving cross-country can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. Exciting? Sure. Tricky? Absolutely. But if you want to make your long-distance move less circus act, more smooth operation, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into 10 mistakes you’ll want to dodge—and how to keep things on track, whether you're headed from Long Beach to Los Angeles or beyond.
We get it—your vintage mug collection holds sentimental value. But packing your entire life into boxes can weigh you down (literally). Instead, declutter.
Do: Hold a pre-move purge. Start with the "three piles" system: keep, donate, toss. Imagine packing up that closet stuffed with clothes you never wear. Painful, right? Save yourself time and money by downsizing now.
Example: A Long Beach property manager once shared how decluttering helped a client save big on moving costs. Lighter loads mean fewer moving truck trips.
Procrastination and moving? Bad combo. Waiting until the last minute means rushed packing, broken keepsakes, and an inbox full of regret.
Do: Create a packing timeline. Start six weeks out. Begin with rarely used items—think holiday décor or out-of-season clothing. Mark your boxes with room names for an easier unpacking process.
Example: A Los Angeles property manager advised a tenant to color-code boxes by room. Unpacking became a breeze, and the movers were impressed with the efficiency.
“What’s in this box?” If you don’t label, you’ll be asking that question 50 times on move-in day.
Do: Use clear labels. Write the room and contents on each box. Better yet, use a digital inventory app to track your stuff.
Pro Tip: Add “Open Me First” to boxes with essentials like toiletries, chargers, and coffee supplies (because caffeine waits for no one).
It’s tempting to toss everything into boxes, but hazardous materials and perishables are a no-go. Think paint, gasoline, or that half-eaten lasagna in your fridge.
Do: Safely dispose of hazardous items. Use up pantry goods before moving. Leftovers? Host a moving-day potluck for friends.
Sure, packing one box of books sounds efficient. Until you try lifting it. Overpacking leads to crushed boxes, broken items, and sore backs.
Do: Distribute weight evenly. Keep heavier items in smaller boxes and save large ones for lightweight things like bedding.
Example: One LA tenant saved her back (and her movers’ mood) by keeping boxes under 40 pounds each. A little planning goes a long way.
Moving day essentials often end up buried under piles of bubble wrap and boxes.
Do: Pack a survival kit with medications, important documents, snacks, toiletries, chargers, and a change of clothes. Keep it with you, not on the moving truck.
Why It Matters: Imagine arriving in Long Beach and needing aspirin, only to realize it’s in a box somewhere between here and Albuquerque.
Booking the cheapest movers you find online? Risky. Horror stories of lost or damaged items are no joke.
Do: Compare moving companies. Look for online reviews, ask about insurance policies, and get quotes. Moving from LA to Long Beach? Consider property management referrals—they often know reliable movers.
A mix-up about what’s being moved or how fragile that antique vase is can lead to disaster.
Do: Clearly label fragile items and discuss special instructions. Movers aren’t mind readers.
Example: A Long Beach landlord once avoided a furniture fiasco by walking movers through the house and pointing out priority items.
Showing up to a home that’s not ready? That’s a move-day nightmare.
Do: Confirm move-in details with your landlord or property manager. For LA property managers, this might mean ensuring utilities are on, keys are accessible, and repairs are completed before you arrive.
Moving is not a solo mission. Attempting to do everything yourself leads to burnout and forgotten details.
Do: Call in reinforcements—friends, family, or professional help. Property managers can also assist by connecting you with reliable service providers.
Property managers aren’t just there to handle tenant requests. They can simplify your move, too. From providing moving checklists to recommending trusted movers, their local expertise is a lifesaver.
For example:
Pre-Move Tips: Long Beach property managers might help you navigate HOA rules on moving trucks.
Settling In: LA property managers often connect new tenants with utility companies or maintenance pros for last-minute fixes.
A long-distance move doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding common mistakes and leaning on expert advice, you’ll transition from one home to another with ease. Whether you're moving across states or just between Long Beach and LA, remember—planning ahead is your best bet for a successful start in your new space.
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