How to Prepare for a Rural Move

Many people move to the countryside in search of more space and a calmer lifestyle. While the notion of a quieter life is incredibly appealing, you must plan extensively to make this significant change as seamless as possible.

From packing and moving to settling and adjusting to your new surroundings, this guide will help you prepare efficiently for a rural move and avoid common moving mistakes.

1. Research the New Location Thoroughly

Before you start packing boxes, take some time to learn more about the community you’re about to settle into. A few things you can check for include: 

• Internet and cell service, especially if you plan to work remotely.
• Access to essential services like health care, grocery stores and schools.
• Utilities such as electricity, water and gas.

2. Check Zoning Laws and Land Use Rules Before Buying Property

Before purchasing a rural property or making major changes to your new home, it’s important to understand the local zoning laws and land use regulations. Rural areas often have specific rules about what you can and cannot do on your land, including restrictions on building new structures, running a farm or keeping livestock.

Checking these rules ahead of time helps you avoid legal problems, ensures your plans for the property comply with regulations, and gives you peace of mind that your new home meets your needs without unexpected complications.

3. Declutter

Relocating to a rural area is the perfect opportunity to reassess what you truly need. Perhaps your city apartment furniture won’t fit a farmhouse-style layout, or maybe you want to simplify and embrace a more intentional lifestyle. Decluttering before your move makes the relocation smoother and gives you a fresh start in your new home.

The less you bring, the fewer boxes you’ll have to pack, move and unpack. Plus, decluttering helps you stay organized, so everything has a place and is easy to find when you arrive.

Here are some decluttering tips to get you started:

• Create separate piles for donating, discarding and packing.
• Shred old documents you no longer need.
• Ask yourself how often you actually use each item.
• Focus on one room or area at a time.
• Remove clothes you haven’t worn in over a year.
• Begin with rooms or spaces you use the least.

4. Choose a Moving Company With Rural Moving Experience

Hiring a moving company is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the smoothness and efficiency of your move. Keep the following factors in mind when evaluating potential movers:

• Check experience: Established moving companies have a proven track record and positive client feedback. Take the time to look at online reviews and testimonials from past customers before hiring a company. Look for evidence of professionalism, reliability and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.
• Get multiple quotes: Request moving quotes from several companies to compare pricing, services and scheduling options. While cost is important, prioritize the overall value and quality of service rather than automatically choosing the lowest bid.
• Verify valuation: Check the level of valuation coverage included in your estimate. Options can range from free basic coverage to full protection. Make sure your estimate includes your desired amount of coverage before signing any contracts.

5. Plan Your Move in Advance

Unless you enjoy the challenge of packing up your entire life in a single weekend, it’s best to start planning your rural move as early as possible. Giving yourself at least three to six months to prepare provides ample time for a calm, organized relocation. The key to a smooth move is getting organized early!

When planning your upcoming move, you can also stay organized with a moving checklist. This can include everything from scheduling your initial appointment with a moving company to packing and selling or donating belongings you won’t take with you.

6. Communicate With Your Movers

Maintaining clear communication with your movers is crucial to a smooth and stress-free move. Let them know about any special items that require extra care, and provide instructions on how you want your belongings to be arranged in your new home. Experienced movers appreciate detailed guidance and are happy to accommodate your requests to ensure everything goes as planned.

FAQs

Get some additional pointers about moving to a rural community with these frequently asked questions.

What Challenges Should You Be Aware of in Rural Areas?

Living in a rural area comes with its own set of challenges compared to city or suburban life. They include:

• Limited essential services: There might be fewer hospitals, clinics or urgent care options nearby, and emergency responders could take longer to reach you in a crisis. Public transportation is often infrequent or unavailable, so having a reliable vehicle is important.
• Internet problems: Internet and cell phone coverage can be slower, less reliable or even spotty in some areas, which may affect work, school or staying connected with family. 
• Road issues: Roads in rural areas can be more challenging to navigate, especially during severe weather conditions such as snowstorms or heavy rain, and wildlife may occasionally cross or block roadways. It’s also common for rural roads to have seasonal restrictions, as well as weight limits. Especially on dirt roads, it’s best to look at the immediate roads surrounding your new location to ensure the moving truck can access your new home without issues. A smaller, lighter truck may be needed depending on local restrictions. When in doubt, reach out to your local road commission for advice. Movers can easily adapt when they’re aware of these circumstances.

Being aware of these factors and planning ahead — such as knowing the locations of nearby medical facilities, keeping emergency supplies readily available and checking local resources — can make rural living much easier and help you avoid surprises.

Is Living in a Rural Area Worthwhile?

Many people enjoy living in rural areas because of the peace, natural scenery and slower pace of life. You’ll often find more space for your home and yard, closer community connections and lower overall living costs compared to urban areas. However, rural living may not be the best fit if you value nightlife, frequent shopping or quick access to services and amenities. Thinking carefully about your priorities and daily needs is essential to decide if rural living suits your lifestyle.

How Can You Adapt to Rural Living?

Adjusting to rural life requires patience and openness to a slower, more self-reliant way of living. Take advantage of outdoor activities, get to know your neighbors and develop practical skills such as gardening, basic home repairs or managing deliveries. Participating in local events or joining community groups online can help you stay connected and maintain ties with family and friends, making the transition easier and more enjoyable.

Choose Corrigan Moving Systems for Your Rural Relocation

The moving process is different for everyone, but following a few simple strategies can make it easier and less stressful. Start planning early, tackle tasks step by step, and hire professional movers to make the transition from city life to rural living smoother and more manageable.

At Corrigan Moving Systems, we have over 95 years of experience, so you can expect a seamless, well-organized move tailored to your needs. Our standard moving services include loading, transporting and unloading, but you can add extra services such as packing and unpacking or storage services if needed.

Ready to move with confidence? Contact our moving specialists to learn more about the requirements for a rural move, or schedule your complimentary in-home estimate. Experience the excitement of a fresh start with Corrigan Moving Systems.