How To Plan A Move Across Country: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Are you considering a move across the country? Whether it’s for a job, to experience something new, or just because it feels right, packing up and starting over somewhere far away can be an intimidating process. But don’t worry — planning your cross-country relocation doesn’t have to be overwhelming! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll go from dreaming about your big move to having everything taken care of in no time. From hiring reliable movers to organizing a long-distance journey with children, here’s everything that you need to know about how to plan a move across the country.
15 Long-Distance Moving Tips
#1 Stick to the long-distance move checklist
When undertaking a significant endeavor such as a cross-country relocation, streamlining the process is perhaps the most effective way on how to move cross country. Creating an extensive checklist with any necessary steps can provide structure and alleviate some of the stress associated with such a large-scale project.
It may also pay off to follow your moving plan precisely, if possible. By doing so, you will ensure tasks get done when they need, providing peace of mind as the move date approaches.
#2 Hire reliable long-distance movers
One of the most helpful long-distance moving tips this guide can give you is to enlist help from a reliable long-distance moving company. With the assistance of expert movers experienced in packing and transporting belongings from state to state, your transition can be straightforward and efficient. Besides, reputable companies provide online tracking for people who need assurance that all their possessions have made it to the new home safely.
#3 Compare various moving companies
But how do I find long-distance movers near me, you may be wondering. Well, for one thing, it is a good idea to research the market and compare the different options available. When looking into companies, it’s important to weigh out their terms and offers to get the most out of your investment. As you become more informed about each company’s offerings and services it will be clear which one best suits your needs.
#4 Request quotes from different movers
Another point to include on your long-distance move checklist is requesting quotes from multiple movers. Doing so allows you to compare prices and review services offered by each mover. Not only will this provide more knowledge in terms of the standard set of services, but it also offers insight into which movers have exceptional offers and terms.
Reach out to at least three different movers before you commit to a particular company. You must choose the mover that meets the criteria for quality, honesty, and affordability.
#5 Check if the moving company is licensed
One more tip for how to plan a move across the country and choose reliable long-distance movers is to see to it that the company is licensed by the proper organizations or state boards. This will help ensure that it practices business ethically and legally as well as guarantee that any potential issues or damages incurred in transit can be appropriately addressed and compensated for. Do not be afraid to contact the necessary regulatory body for the required documentation — your peace of mind is paramount!
#6 Scan customer reviews
Scanning customer reviews about a moving company is one of those cross country move tips and tricks you should never overlook. Reviews provide insight into the quality of service offered and the overall experience a customer had with the company. Reading through multiple reviews is also beneficial when trying to identify potential red flags such as untrustworthiness or inconsistent quality.
#7 Make a full inventory list
Preparing a full home inventory list before you embark on a long-distance relocation is an essential task on your long-distance move checklist. A well-written list has the potential to save you a great deal of time, energy, and frustration during one of the most stressful parts of life. It can likewise provide an important accounting tool should any damage be incurred when items are transported to your new home.
#8 Organize your belongings by room
One simple way on how to move cross country in an organized manner is to arrange your belongings by room. By doing this, it’s possible to see which items are necessary for each space and determine what should be packed or disposed of before you arrange for movers. Besides, having the items labeled according to their location makes unpacking in the new house much easier and faster.
This system also allows you to keep track of important documents and valuables that need special care during transport. So if you’re facing a long-distance relocation, remember that organizing your belongings by room provides a great start in preparing your home for the journey ahead!
#9 Outsource the packing to the movers
One of the best cross-country move tips and tricks that is often overlooked is that you can ease the burden by outsourcing the packing to movers. Not only will this save time, but it will also provide peace of mind knowing that each item is wrapped and prepared for travel with proper boxes, padding, and labeling.
Depending on the mover, outsourcing your packing might even come at a discounted rate compared to what you would have paid if you packed yourself. Regardless, knowing that your items are in trained hands can make the long-distance moving process much more manageable.
#10 Make arrangements for moving furniture
When planning for a long-distance relocation, furniture is an important aspect to consider. If you have sturdy and valuable pieces, such as antiques or family heirlooms, then you will very likely want to take them with you. But if the piece is nothing special and moving would be more costly than purchasing a new one, it may be best to leave it behind.
Oftentimes, it could end up being more financially prudent to acquire cheaper furniture in your new location rather than paying large sums to get it there. Taking the time to figure out the costs involved and shop around for reasonable yet quality replacement items can help make a successful transition into your new home.
#11 Prepare a long-distance move with kids
One simple way on how to prepare for a cross-country move with kids is to take the process one step at a time. Begin with hiring a babysitter or asking friends to help out while prepping for the relocation. This will free up some of your time so that you can better address any other moving tasks that need to be done. Next, depending on their age, involve your children in the planning process of the move. This will provide them with a sense of ownership and control during this stressful period.
#12 Get your pets ready for moving across country
The question of how to plan a move across the country with a pet is not an easy one. Relocating your pet requires some forethought and preparation, so it’s best to start getting everything organized as soon as possible. First and foremost, assess whether you have everything necessary for your pet to travel with you in the car.
Depending on the timeframe of your relocation, you may need to consider staying at pet-friendly hotels or arranging for a host family to care for them until you arrive at your destination. It is likewise a good idea to examine the regulations that will apply if you are crossing state lines with an animal and ensure that they are current on all of their medical immunizations and vaccinations.
#13 Write down the driver’s contact number
An essential tip that will help alleviate some of the stress is to ask for the driver’s contact number. This will allow you to stay in touch with the moving company during transit and ensure that your belongings are safe and on schedule. Having access to the individual responsible for your relocation will make it easier for you to remain updated throughout the journey and keep track of any changes along the way.
#14 Inspect the belongings for damage before the movers leave
An additional piece of advice is to inspect your belongings before the movers depart. This will ensure that no items have been damaged in transit and allow you to address any issues before fully settling into your new home. Taking the time to assess all items upon arrival is a proactive step that can save you from potentially having to pay for or replace broken items.
#15 Tip the movers
The final recommendation on our long-distance moving tips list is to tip the movers. A successful tip serves as recognition of the quality service provided by these hardworking individuals and in turn, ensures a smoother process for anyone preparing for a long-distance relocation.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, preparing for a long-distance move is not an easy task. It requires time, patience, and organization. But if you start preparing early and follow our cross country move tips and tricks, your relocation will be much smoother and stress-free.
