When you’re making a move across the country, the amount of time it will take can be difficult to predict. There are several factors that will affect the duration of your move, here a few of the most common:
1. Distance
Obviously, the farther you’re moving, the longer it will take. A cross-country move from Los Angeles to Georgia will take considerably longer than a move from Los Angeles to Texas. Deciding the route you take and mapping out how long it will take to drive can help you get a better idea of how long the trip will be.
2. Mode of Transportation
Are you driving or flying? If you’re renting a moving truck and driving, it’ll take much longer than if you book a flight and have the rest of your belongings shipped. The mode of transportation you choose will greatly affect the amount of time it takes to move cross-country.
3. How Much Stuff You Have
The more items you’re moving, the longer it will take to pack and load them. It’s a good idea to go through your things before you move and decide which items you can donate or sell. When you have a vehicle to tow as well, that can add a considerable amount of time to your trip.
4. Weather Conditions
If there are severe storms on the route of your drive, it could add several hours to your trip. When planning a cross-country move, considering the time of year and the weather along the entire route you take is a very important part of planning so as to limit the amount of weather related setbacks you have.
5. The Size of Your Moving Crew
Do you plan on doing the move yourself or hiring professional movers? If your moving crew is small, it will take longer than if you have a large team helping out. The larger the moving crew, the faster it will go.
6. Traffic Conditions
Depending on when you’re making your move, you could be dealing with rush hour traffic in certain cities. This can add a significant amount of time to your trip. Try to plan your passing through major cities around high drive times.
7. How Far Ahead You Plan
Making sure that you have enough time to plan out your move and take care of all the necessary tasks will help ensure that your cross-country trip is as smooth and hassle-free as possible. The more time you give yourself to plan, the better.
By taking into consideration all of these factors, you can get a better idea of how long it will take to make a cross-country move. With the right preparations in place, you can make sure that your move goes as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Good luck with your move!