long haul

long haul or long pull  {n.},  {informal}

1. A long distance or trip.

It is a long haul to drive across the country.

Contrast: SHORT HAUL.

2. A long length of time during which work continues or something is done; a long time of trying.

A boy crippled by polio may learn to walk again, but it may be a long haul.

- Often used in the phrase "over the long haul".

Over the long haul, an expensive pair of shoes may save you money.

Contrast: SHORT HAUL.