Before I get into the nuts and bolts, I'd like to stress how important it is to start early, do your research, and plan ahead (remember, this is based on our move two years ago, so some of the information will be outdated). The more you're able to do up front, the easier -- and cheaper! -- it will be to relocate.
US MAIL
I found the most economical way to move books and CD's is via USPS Media Mail. In order to maximize the benefit, we aimed for about 65 pounds per box. We used small and medium heavy weight moving boxes with double wall construction. There are specific requirements for Media Mail and the packages are subject to inspection. This method is also the slowest. Although the USPS website says 2 to 8 business days, it ended up being more like 4 weeks for us.
Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes are a good option for small, dense items that you might need up until the last minute, like a small frying pan or other kitchen utensils. The quality of boxes isn't great, however, so several of ours arrived smashed or torn.
MOVERS
We went with M. Dyer and Sons. I was not paid for an endorsement, do not get any kind of referral bonus, and am not otherwise affiliated with the company. All you are getting is my straight up honest opinion, but it should not stop you from doing your own due diligence. M. Dyer wasn't the lowest estimate, but I'm glad we picked them for these reasons:
1) Nothing broke -- This was the most amazing part of my experience with M. Dyer. They packed everything from fragile stemware to furniture and every single item arrived in pristine condition. We can't say the same for the stuff we packed ourselves and brought with us. On that note, they will tell you not to pack anything yourself. LISTEN TO THEM, regardless of how hard it might be to stand around and watch.
2) Accurate Estimates -- I've been burned before by going with the lowest cost provider for a local move (the actual price paid turned out to be almost three times higher than the quote!), so there's real value, at least to me, in accurate estimates. M. Dyer was spot on. On the cost side, we actually came in a little under the original quote, which was a nice surprise. We were told total transit time would be 4 to 6 weeks. Not really knowing what to expect, we planned on 5 weeks plus a couple extra days for holidays. Our stuff arrived exactly when we hoped it would.
3) Responsive Communication -- They were quick to answer questions and clearly laid out what needed to happen and when. Once our stuff was packed up, they provided regular updates. I knew when the containers left Honolulu and when they arrived at the port in Long Beach, California. From there, we were put in touch with the logistics company coordinating delivery. The transition was smooth and seamless.
AIRFARE
Although it may seem extravagant, we flew first class. Luggage fees and weight restrictions were the biggest factor in that decision. In coach, each of us would have been limited to 50 pounds per checked bag and paid $25 for the first, $35 for the second, and $100 for the third. At the time, first class ticket holders were allowed up to 3 70-pound bags (though I think current policy is just 2 bags). In order to save some money, we purchased out tickets as far in advance as possible -- about two months -- and left Honolulu on a Tuesday redeye. When you factor in the fees, we ended up spending about $300 more per ticket than we would have spent flying coach. It was worth it for the extra space and lie-flat seats to Dallas-Fort Worth, particularly since we were traveling with two small kids.
Questions?
Comment below or find me on Twitter. If you are a transplant from the 808 now living in the 615, hit me up. We can grab some L&L in Franklin (even though it's not quite the same) and exchange stories from our hanabata days.
