Cross-country moving isn’t for the faint-hearted. Planning the entire move and executing it can be challenging. There are many moving parts, and some might not go as planned. Below is a list of 10 things you should know before moving across the state lines.

1. Prepare in Advance

Once you have decided to relocate to a new town, state, or region, what follows is to plan your move. Preparing in advance isn’t just about packing your belongings, changing your address, or obtaining a new driver’s license. It would be best if you also considered everything and everyone affected by the move. For instance, how will your kids adjust to relocating from one state to another? How will the move affect your social life as a family, finances, kids’ education, etc.? A concrete plan almost always means preparing in advance and being ready to tackle any challenges.

2. Always Have a Moving Checklist

Having a moving checklist is common, but it’s even more essential when planning a cross-country move. The checklist will serve as your guide throughout the moving exercise, from preparation and packing to unpacking and settling in your new home. One of the best ways to plan your moving checklist is to brainstorm the things you use daily and write them one by one. You can also visit room to room as you sort out the things to pack and those to leave behind.

3. Hire the Right Moving Company

One of the crucial things to note before moving cross-country is to distinguish between local and cross-country movers. Most moving companies are very specific about the services they offer, as far as the areas they cover are concerned. Your local moving company will quickly respond to an intrastate move. However, it takes an experienced cross-country moving company to move your belongings from California to New York. Before choosing a moving company, always do your homework. Compare the rates, check the customer reviews, and, where possible, schedule a one-on-one chat with the company staff.

You might also need to relocate your vehicle and choose a reliable car ship service. Consider cost, reputation, and reliability. Key considerations:
– Transport Type: Open-air vs. enclosed carriers.
– Insurance Coverage: Verify comprehensive insurance.
– Carrier Reputation: Check reviews for reliability.
– Cost and Payment Terms: Compare quotes and services.
– Delivery Timelines: Discuss pickup and delivery windows.
– Vehicle Preparation: Follow carrier’s requirements.
– Company Certifications: Confirm registration and licensing.
– Tracking Services: Ask about tracking options.
Consider these factors for a stress-free car shipping experience.

4. Pack with Care

If you aren’t going to hire professional packers, ensure you have some packing skills. The difference between professional and amateur packing goes beyond skills and experience. It’s more about the safety of the items being moved. Unless you must pack your items alone, consider working with someone with the skills and experience of packing for a cross-country move.

5. Consider Your Options Before Shipping Everything

It’s often tempting to move all your belongings to the new residence. The decision to ship your car will often depend on your unique situation. For instance, driving your car to a new location may cause unnecessary wear and tear, especially if you want to keep it in top-notch shape. You can also choose to drive the vehicle and then trade or sell it once you reach your destination.

6. Consolidate Your Finances

Cross-country moving can be quite costly, especially when moving many items long distances. Before planning your move, ensure you are prepared financially to avoid inconveniences. If you must save up or apply for a loan, ensure you do so long before the moving day.

7. Seek Help Where Necessary

For people with large families and lots of items to move, you can decide to seek help from friends and neighbors. Getting an extra pair of hands while sorting your items, packing, and loading the moving truck can save you a lot of time and money throughout the relocation process.

8. Embrace Flexibility

When moving to a new place, you should always prepare for the unexpected. Despite proper planning, it’s easy for some things to go wrong. For instance, you may pack everything right, but some items may deform. Your movers may also delay or fail to keep all their promises, but you should learn to be flexible and remain calm.

9. Have an Unpacking Plan

Once the movers arrive at your new home, you should have an unpacking list to ensure everything falls into place. This is especially important if you move to a slightly smaller or larger home. Remember, you don’t need to unpack everything immediately. Instead, you can first focus on the kitchen and your bedroom. That way, you can easily cook and relax after a long day. Always take it easy and have a schedule that fits your routine and lifestyle.

10. Prepare to Meet New People

After settling in your new home, plan a day or two to get outside and say hello to your neighbors. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment. You just need to get outside, explore the surroundings, and be ready to meet and converse with the neighbors.

The Bottom Line

Moving cross-country can be challenging but not impossible. It takes proper planning, seeking professional help, choosing the right moving company, and being flexible to move across state lines successfully. The list above isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a great guide for anyone planning a long-distance move.