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November 13, 2019

On the Road Again: 6 Tips for Moving Cross Country

Moving cross country is an exciting time filled with new prospects and adventures. It will also be somewhat overwhelming and stressful if you’ve never done it before.

According to the experts, these are the best tips for moving cross country that will make sure you stay focused on the positive benefits associated with moving.

1. Start Planning Early

There’s more to moving across the country than you ever imagined. You’ll need at least three months to plan, pack, and sort out all the paperwork.

One of the first things to do is book your moving company early. Do your research and get at least three estimates before you make a decision.

2. Stay Organized

When it comes to planning for a cross-country move, you can’t afford to leave it up to chance.

You need a plan and a checklist. Be specific and detailed with your moving schedule by creating a day-to-day and week-by-week to-do list.

Don’t leave anything off the list, and make sure you cross everything off as the big moving day approaches.

When moving day arrives, you’ll be happy that you were thorough, and you won’t be hurrying to complete a task you forgot the day before the move.

3. Travel Light

The further you move, the more it’s going to cost, but moving companies also charge according to the weight of your freight.

Now’s the time to declutter as much as you can. Planning the layout of your furniture in your new home will help you to decide which items you don’t have space for. Sell or donate cumbersome items instead of trying to figure out what to do with them on arrival.

Get rid of anything you haven’t used in the last six months. You don’t want to pay to move things you don’t really need.

4. Pack It Well

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to start packing your stuff.

First, invest in durable boxes and pack everything as safely as possible. Durable boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap will help protect your belongings during the move.

Label each box with the contents of the box as well as the room destination in the new home.

Create an essentials box to take with you. Place items you’ll need right away in this box. Include medicines, toiletries, soap, paper towels, cleaning supplies, utensils, paper plates, cups, chargers, and necessary tools.

5. Keep Important Items With You

Gather your important papers and documents like birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and medical records. Organize them into folders so that they are convenient to locate once you arrive at your new home.

Keep these important items with you instead of packing them in the moving boxes.

6. Plan for the Long Haul

If you’re going to be in transit for a few days, remember to pack your overnight bag accordingly. Make sure you have enough clothes, food, toiletries, and other essentials for the entire journey.

Likewise, you’ll need accommodations for every night you’re on the road — so book in advance. You want to avoid searching for somewhere to stay in unfamiliar territory after a long day.