An interstate move can be especially stressful, as that longer distance means you won't get a second chance to go back home and get any items you may have forgotten or overlooked! You also need to ensure your items are packed very carefully for an interstate move, as there is a greater risk of something getting damaged the longer it's in a moving truck or car. To help make your moving day as easy as possible and to alleviate some of that stress, note a few tips to remember.

Start early and double bag

When you're at the supermarket, you might use two bags for something very heavy or fragile; do the same with items in a long-distance move to help protect them. This can include using two layers of bubble wrap rather than one, and packing boxes half full so you can add twice the amount of Styrofoam peanuts and other such materials. You also want to use boxes that are twice as thick as what you might use for a short, local move.

Because all this double bagging and double packing takes time, start early. Box up items you won't need between now and the move so you aren't rushed and stressed when that day arrives.

Use your groceries

Your perishables probably won't survive an interstate move, so take inventory of what's in the refrigerator a good two or three weeks, or even more, before the move; consider how you'll use up those items in the days leading up to the move itself. This includes items you don't use every day, such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and the like; the more of these foods you use up, the less you'll need to pack and move, and the fewer items that may spoil in transit! Keep a grocery list handy so you know items you'll need to replace once you arrive in your new home, such as condiments and salad dressing.

Choose an interstate removalist

An interstate removalist will understand the protection needed for items that are travelling long distances and may use extra materials to secure your items; they may also make suggestions for how to best protect items during a long move. This might include special ways of packing dishes in boxes or of wrapping clothes so that dyes don't spread and stain items in the same box. Check with an interstate removalist well before your moving date so you can ask them about those suggestions and ensure all your items are securely packed for that interstate move.