We’ve taken five trips across the United States via car. It’s a trip worth taking and I’d say add it to your bucket list. From coast to coast it was one of the most eye opening and coolest things I’ve done since eating Poprocks and Soda in school!
When gearing up for a large trip like this, whether it be for leisure, business or moving, there’s certain tasks that should be done for a better trip.
First is the planning. Now I get that some people are the “just get in the car and go” types. However, for all others, I suggest getting a general idea as to where you’re going, point A and B and back again if that’s needed. Google maps can show you which route to take, keeping in mind the up coming weather. Plan on what you are taking as far as clothing and/or house hold goods, the heavier the vehicle the less gas per mile you’ll get. You can go on AAA website and figure out about how much money gas will cost. Have your vehicle serviced prior. Join a hotel chain membership, some offer free night after a couple stays. Food and drinks is always needed on a trip, be sure to have a small cooler for drinks and chocolate! We like the cooler bags, takes up less room and easier to handle. Be sure, if taking animals, they have plenty of space, food and water. A lot of animals are used to traveling and probably wont eat much on the road, but try to give them food and water at every stop. Also, bring your pets favorite toy. We brought part of our cats scratching Tree, it screwed apart and fit nicely in the trunk.
Second: if you are moving and need to hire a moving company; Never hire a company called KLM Mover/Vanlines – we learned from experience. Get many quotes from at least 5 different companies. Have an inventory list to provide the movers. Ask them if they have a rep that can come view your items for an estimate. Make sure you tell them if there are stairs or a long walk to your locations, most companies charge extra. If you have to guess on how many boxes, guess a little high. Just so you know, they will call you every day until you make a decision. That is ok, just tell them you’re waiting for all the quotes. Most of the companies will give you an Estimate – not a firm quote. You should ask them what exactly is included and what is not. Ask them to provide a break down cost on what they charge once they come to pick up your items. Once they come to pick up your items, they will count and weigh your stuff and could charge more if estimate is low. Be sure to wrap, box and take everything by yourself because, Most will charge a high price, like KLM does, to use their boxes, tape and wrapping. You should ask them before they start removing items, what materials will they NEED to use and what is the cost. Most of the drivers that show up are contracted through the moving company and have different cost list of their materials to be used. Take picture of ALL your items before and after you pack them. Make sure everything is documented on a written list. Most movers wont properly document what items they remove, will just write down Box or Chair on their list. DON’T write on the boxes what’s inside. Only put what room they go in once arriving at the new place. Be sure to get extra insurance, they offer the basic and most times it’s by the weight of the item, which is never the true value. be sure to give an email and several phone numbers to the company. Ask them what how long is delivery times, most run late. Ask them if they are late, is there a reduction in cost. When your stuff arrives, be sure to inspect each item. Shake a box that says kitchen to make sure there’s no broken glass. Count, count and recount your items and be sure everything is there prior to the driver leaving. Enjoy unpacking, LOL.
Third, relax on your trip. It can take as little as 4 days to travel across country or as long as you want. Enjoy the time, take pictures, stop off at historical places. See where Diner Drive-ins and Dives ate or map out some museums if that your thing. Take lost of picture and share.
Finally; we hope you have an awesome summer and travel. Life is short, enjoy the one who gave it to you.
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