Moving to a new home is one of life’s biggest transitions—and often one of the most stressful. Whether you’re relocating across town, across the country, or across the globe, having the right strategy (and the right moving partner) can make all the difference.
At Buehler Companies, we’ve helped thousands of families successfully navigate local, long-distance, and international moves. Here’s what you need to know to make your next move smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
Why Moving Feels So Overwhelming (And How to Get Ahead of It)
You’re not alone—moving is widely considered one of the most stressful life events. In fact, about 60% of Americans describe moving as stressful, with many reconsidering moving altogether due to the toll it takes.
At the same time, millions of Americans still relocate every year. Roughly 11% of the population moves annually, even as overall mobility trends remain historically low.
The key takeaway? Moving is common—but doing it well requires planning and the right support.
Start with a Plan: Your Moving Checklist
No matter the type of move, preparation is everything.
1. Create a Timeline
Start planning your move at least 6–8 weeks in advance. This allows time to:
- Book movers
- Declutter your home
- Gather packing supplies
- Notify utilities and update your address
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to simplify. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need—this reduces both cost and effort.
3. Understanding the True Cost of a Move
The cost of a move can vary widely depending on several key factors. Rather than focusing on a single price point, it’s important to understand what actually goes into the total cost so you can plan—and budget—accordingly.
Key Factors That Impact Moving Costs:
- Distance & Shipment Size
Most residential moves—especially long-distance—are priced based on the distance traveled and the total weight (or volume) of your belongings. The more you move and the farther it goes, the higher the cost.
- Packing & Materials
Whether you pack yourself or hire professionals can significantly impact your budget. Professional packing services add convenience and protection but come at an additional cost.
- Transportation Expenses
For cross-country moves, don’t forget personal travel costs such as:
- Hotels
- Meals
- Fuel or airfare
- Overlap Costs (Dual Housing)
It’s common to have a period where you’re paying for two homes at once—your current residence and your new one. This overlap can add up quickly.
- Utility Deposits & Setup
Setting up services like electricity, water, internet, and gas may require deposits or activation fees at your new home.
- Peak Season Pricing
Most moves happen between May and September, which is considered peak moving season. During this time, demand is higher, and rates may increase.
- Specialty Items & Additional Services
Items like pianos, safes, or high-value artwork may require special handling, adding to the overall cost.
Packing Tips to Protect What Matters Most
Packing is one of the most time-consuming parts of any move—and one of the most important.
Pack Smart:
- Use sturdy boxes and proper cushioning
- Label every box clearly (room + contents)
- Keep essentials separate (medications, documents, valuables)
Consider Professional Packing
Professional packing services can:
- Reduce breakage risk
- Save significant time
- Ensure proper handling of fragile or high-value items
Learn more about professional packing options here:
Packing Services: https://www.buehlercompanies.com/packing-services
Types of Residential Moves (And What to Expect)
Local Moves
Most moves—nearly 80%—happen within the same state.
Local moves may seem simple, but they still require:
- Efficient scheduling
- Proper packing
- Experienced movers who know the area
Cross-Country (Long-Distance) Moves
Moving across state lines adds complexity:
- Logistics and timing become critical
- Inventory tracking is essential
- Costs and coordination increase
Only about 17% of moves are interstate, making experienced long-distance carriers especially important.
International Moves
International relocations involve:
- Customs documentation
- Shipping logistics (air or sea freight)
- Regulatory compliance
Working with an experienced provider ensures nothing gets lost in translation—or transit.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
Not all moving companies are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
1. Licensing & Credentials
Make sure your mover is properly licensed and insured—especially for interstate or international moves.
2. Experience & Reputation
Choose a company with a proven track record handling moves similar to yours.
3. Transparent Pricing
Look for clear, upfront pricing—no hidden fees.
4. Range of Services
The best movers offer:
- Packing and unpacking
- Storage solutions
- Specialty item handling
- Logistics coordination
5. Carrier Relationships Matter
Buehler Companies is proud to be a carrier for both United Van Lines and Mayflower, two of the most trusted names in the industry.
This means:
- Nationwide and global reach
- Proven systems and standards
- Reliable, professional service at every stage
Why Work with Buehler Companies?
Choosing the right moving partner is just as important as planning the move itself.
With Buehler Companies, you get:
- Local Expertise: Serving Colorado and beyond with decades of experience
- Nationwide & Global Reach: Through partnerships with United Van Lines and Mayflower
- Full-Service Solutions: From packing and storage to logistics and delivery
- Specialized Handling: From everyday household goods to high-value and sensitive items
Final Thoughts: Make Your Move a Smart Move
Even though fewer Americans are moving than in decades past, millions of households still relocate every year, often for family, career, or lifestyle reasons.
The difference between a stressful move and a smooth one comes down to preparation—and choosing a moving company you can trust.
If you’re planning a move—local, cross-country, or international—partnering with an experienced, full-service provider like Buehler Companies ensures your move is handled with care from start to finish.
Ready to Get Moving?
Contact Buehler Companies today to start planning your next move with confidence.
