877-412-1344 Ever thought about how your move was difficult as a single person? Imagine how big families feel when they need to get everyone ready to go! If you are the parent of a big family, welcome aboard – there is quite a lot to learn. Even though a move is a move, more people require more time and thought to get everything going properly. Now might be a good time to consult with our database of licensed interstate movers at AmeriSafe National Movers for help. And with the right long distance moving tips for big families, the process will become significantly smoother.
What are considered big families? And do they move often?
Big families, typically defined as those with three or more children, make up a smaller but significant portion of households in the USA. According to Gallup News, 15% of families in the USA have three, 7% have four, and 5% have five or more children. While family sizes in the United States have generally decreased over the past few decades, there remains a consistent segment of the population that prefers or maintains a larger family structure.
Family size trends show that the average American family has fewer children than in the past, with the average number of children per family standing at about 1.94 in 2023, down from higher averages in the mid-20th century. Economic factors, lifestyle preferences, and societal norms contribute to this trend toward smaller family sizes.
Despite these statistics, big families move less frequently than smaller ones. Moving is often a substantial logistical and financial undertaking for larger families, involving more significant adjustments in terms of schooling, childcare, and housing needs. As such, when big families do move, it’s typically driven by significant life changes or opportunities, such as job relocations, needing more space, or seeking a better quality of life in a new location.
Our best long distance moving tips for big families
As a partner of many reputable residential movers Florida residents recommend we have seen just how many families move in and out of Florida every year. Keep in mind that the population of this state has been growing since 2020 by more than 1% each year! That’s a lot of completed moves and a lot of gained experience to share the following tips:
- Start planning early
- Declutter and downsize
- Organize and label belongings
- Pack smartly for a big family
- Hire a reputable moving company
- Plan for the kids and pets
- Manage travel logistics
- Settle into the new home with a plan
- Stay organized and communicative
- Handle unexpected challenges
Start planning early
Set your moving date several months in advance. This early commitment gives you ample time to compare moving companies and book your preferred choice. Early planning allows you to avoid last-minute scrambles for available movers, potentially saving you from higher prices or limited options. For instance, did you know that about 80% of all moves occur between May and September? Booking outside this peak time could be cheaper and easier.
Make planning a family affair. Assign everyone in the household tasks suited to their age and capabilities. This involvement helps distribute the workload and keeps everyone invested in the move. Younger children can help by sorting and packing stuffed toys for storage or packing their favorite books. Older kids can assist with packing their rooms and gathering important paperwork.
Declutter and downsize
A key element in long distance moving tips for big families is to declutter. Moving with fewer items reduces the moving cost and simplifies the setup in your new home. Start by sorting through belongings in least-used areas like basements or attics. If you haven’t used something in over a year, it’s likely not essential to anyone in the family.
Turn decluttering into a profitable event by organizing a garage sale. This can be a fun family activity that also boosts your moving budget. Advertise on local community boards and online platforms to attract a bigger crowd. Whatever you don’t sell, consider donating.
Donating items can be incredibly fulfilling. Many organizations accept gently used items and provide them to those in need. This act helps lighten your moving load and supports your community. Before donating, ensure all items are clean and in good condition. This respect for the recipients underscores the positive impact of your donation.
Organize and label belongings
When tackling a big move, organization is your best friend. Using color-coded labels for boxes can streamline the entire unpacking process. It is important to label your boxes and do it right! Assign a color to each room and stick to it. For instance:
- Blue for the kitchen
- Green for the living room
- Yellow for the master bedroom
This method makes it easier for movers to place boxes in the correct rooms, but it also speeds up the unpacking process, allowing you to settle in faster. Keeping track of all your belongings might seem impossible, but it’s crucial during long-distance moves. Create a detailed inventory, including box numbers, contents, and designated colors.
Pack smartly for a big family
Consistency in box sizes can greatly improve the efficiency of loading and unloading your moving truck, especially when dealing with long distance moving Florida scenarios. Uniform boxes stack neatly, maximizing space and minimizing the risk of damage during transit when the streets are crowded during the summer season.
Think about what you’ll need immediately upon arriving at your new home. Pack these essential items in clearly labeled boxes:
- Important documents like birth certificates and school records
- Basic toiletries and a first-aid kit
- Enough clothing for a few days
Also, consider a personalized “first-night” box for each family member, which might include items like pajamas, a favorite book, or special toys for the kids. Every family member should have their own so that you avoid the stress of having to find pajamas when everyone is already stressed, tired, and just wants to go to bed.
Hire a reputable moving company
Not all moving companies are created equal, especially when it comes to handling big family relocations. Spend time researching and comparing different companies. Look for movers who offer packing services and interstate transfers, as these skills are crucial for a smooth move. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family who’ve recently moved.
Moving with a big family can get expensive, but many companies offer discounts for large-scale moves. Don’t hesitate to ask potential movers about:
- Discounts for large loads
- Seasonal promotions that could lower costs
- Bundled services that include packing and unpacking
Finding the right moving company is one of the best long distance moving tips for big families. They can take some of the weight off your shoulders, making the move more manageable financially and logistically.
Consider full-service options
For big families, a full-service moving company can be a game-changer. These movers handle everything from packing your belongings to loading, transporting, and unloading them at your new home. Here’s why you might consider this option:
- Stress reduction: Letting professionals handle the packing and heavy lifting can significantly reduce stress levels.
- Efficiency: Experienced movers work quickly and know how to handle large volumes of items safely, reducing the risk of damaged belongings.
- Convenience: You can focus on other important aspects of moving, like setting up your new home and caring for your family.
Plan for the kids and pets
On moving day, having young children underfoot can be challenging. Here are a few options to consider:
- Arrange for a family member or friend to watch them.
- Hire a babysitter to keep them occupied and safe away from the chaos.
- Set up a specific “kids’ zone” at your old and new home where they can play safely.
Moving with pets also requires special considerations, especially when dealing with pet relocation from Florida to California, where you will cross state borders and where laws likely vary. Ensure your pets are comfortable and secure on the road by:
- Keeping them in well-ventilated carriers.
- Scheduling regular stops for exercise and bathroom breaks.
- Updating their microchip information and ensuring they have ID tags with your new address.
Handling unexpected challenges
Handling unexpected challenges during a move is an integral part of the process, especially for big families. This is by far one of the best long distance moving tips for big families, and it is often overseen. Even with planning, unforeseen issues can crop up that disrupt the moving schedule or logistics. Common challenges might include delays from the moving company; sudden weather changes that hinder travel, or last-minute packing needs that catch everyone off guard. When these challenges arise, it’s important to address them systematically:
- Take a deep breath: Staying calm is crucial; it allows you to think clearly and act decisively.
- Tackle one issue at a time: Focus on resolving the most immediate problems first. For example, if the movers are delayed, use the extra time to double-check your inventory or make additional preparations.
- Use your inventory list: This list becomes invaluable if you need to quickly verify that all items are accounted for, especially if you’re working against time constraints.
- Stay flexible and positive: Maintaining a positive attitude is vital. Emphasize to your family that hiccups are part of the adventure of moving. Encourage adaptability and resilience by focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Manage travel logistics
Mapping out your route in advance is crucial, especially when dealing with long distances and driving to your new home. Use apps and websites to find the best routes and note interesting spots for breaks. This planning can help you avoid traffic jams and construction sites, making the drive smoother.
During the move, you’ll need quick access to certain documents. Keep these in a well-labeled and easily accessible folder:
- Personal IDs and passports.
- Medical and school records.
- Moving and rental agreements.
Long drives can be taxing, especially for kids. A well-thought-out road trip kit can keep everyone happy and entertained. Include:
- Snacks and water bottles to stay hydrated and energized.
- Games, books, and tablets for entertainment.
- First aid kit for unexpected minor injuries.
Settling into the new home
Tackling the unpacking process one room at a time can prevent the task from feeling overwhelming. Start with the rooms you’ll use most frequently:
- Kitchen: Set up appliances and unpack dishes and utensils first.
- Bedrooms: Ensure everyone has a comfortable place to sleep by setting up beds and unpacking personal items.
Making your children’s rooms feel familiar is crucial for helping them adjust. Prioritize assembling beds, arranging familiar bedding, and unpacking favorite toys and books to make the space inviting. Involving kids in this process can make them feel more at home and supports kid friendly unpacking by letting them decide the layout of their personal spaces. Once you’re somewhat settled, take some time to connect with your new community. Activities might include visiting local parks and playgrounds, introducing yourselves to neighbors, and locating nearby essentials like grocery stores, pharmacies, and hospitals.
Staying organized and communicative
Keep everyone in the loop about what’s happening and what’s needed by holding regular family meetings. These gatherings can help track unpacking progress, address any concerns family members might have, and plan for upcoming needs or tasks. As for organization, a binder with tabs for different categories keeps important documents and receipts organized. Ensure it includes:
- Contracts and receipts from movers.
- New school records and medical documents.
- Any rental or purchase agreements for your new home.
These long distance moving tips for big families will make every move easier
Successfully moving a big family long-distance requires more than just packing boxes; it demands a strategic approach that includes everyone. By following these long distance moving tips for big families, you will make sure that you do your best to avoid unexpected challenges. But even if they arise, don’t beat yourself up! Try to embrace them and see them as an opportunity for your family to solve problems together. Good luck!
