a girl packing books into a container and getting ready for moving cross-country overlay

How to Move Across the US – Ultimate Guide by Cross Country Movers

Posted in How-to,Moving Essentials,Planning the Move on October 2, 2024

Relocating across the US is a journey filled with excitement, a bit of chaos, and a whole lot of logistics. But fear not! This ultimate guide on how to move cross-country will help you conquer the relocation process like a professional. From planning and packing to finally settling in, we’ve got everything you need to know to make your interstate relocation smooth, stress-free, and maybe even a little fun. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

How to Move Between States?

Relocating between states is a huge life event, but with the right planning and approach, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by creating a realistic long-distance moving timeline that gives you enough time to handle every step. Decide whether to go the DIY route or hire professional movers for your belongings and vehicle.

Don’t forget the essentials like downsizing for a move, setting up utilities, gathering supplies, organizing important documents, and so on. It’s also important to have strategies in place to keep your family comfortable and entertained. Finally, after the big move, unpack with a plan and take the time to explore your new neighborhood to make it feel like home.

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Know Where to Start When Preparing to Move

Relocating to a new city across the country is no small feat. However, the first step in any successful relocation is getting a handle on your timeline. It’s essential to assess how much time you have to get everything done.

Moving cross-country in two weeks versus two months will drastically change how you approach the process. If you’re on a tight deadline, prioritizing tasks like hiring movers becomes critical. For those lucky enough to have more time, creating a day-by-day or week-by-week to-do list can help spread the workload and reduce relocation stress.

Approximately 8 weeks are needed for proper relocation preparation

Be honest with yourself when setting your schedule, and make sure to start early. In addition to that, it’s important to aim for progress over perfection and give yourself grace for the inevitable hiccups along the way.

Budgeting for Your Cross-Country Relocation

Organizing a relocation without a budget is like setting off on a road trip without a map – you’re bound to get lost. However, budgeting can be your secret weapon to keep things under control. Laying out all potential expenses early on helps you avoid last-minute financial panic and ensures you can allocate your funds smartly. Plus, don’t forget that a well-thought-out relocation budget gives you a better idea of where you can save on moving costs.

Choosing Between DIY vs. Hiring Professional Long-Distance Movers

So, you’re standing at a crossroads: should you tackle this interstate relocation on your own or hand it over to the pros? Both options come with their own set of perks and pitfalls. Going the DIY route may seem appealing if you’re looking to save a few bucks, but there’s a lot more to consider than just the cost of a rental truck. Sure, you’re in control of the timeline, but you’re also responsible for every step, literally. Plus, unless you’re a pro at boxing up and heavy lifting, the physical toll can be a serious downside.

Getting cross-country moving services, on the other hand, can feel like the ultimate stress-buster. Imagine handing over all the hard work and letting experienced professionals, such as Cross Country Movers, handle everything. Not only do they come equipped with all the right tools and skills, but their expertise can save you from unexpected setbacks (and backaches).

While it might come with a higher price tag, the convenience, time saved, and peace of mind are well worth the investment. After all, wouldn’t you rather focus on settling into your new home instead of worrying about logistics?

Long-distance movers carrying boxes
Some of the most important steps to moving interstate can be done by movers

The Most Important Packing Tips to Remember

Packing is one of the most demanding and time-consuming relocation tasks. However, with the right packing tips, you can stay ahead of the game and make sure your belongings arrive in one piece (and you stay sane in the process). Here are some relocation hacks you’ll want to keep in mind to make this move as smooth as possible:

  • Start early – procrastination is your enemy. Waiting until the last minute to pack is a recipe for chaos. Start early so you can pack room by room at a steady pace without feeling rushed.
  • Declutter before you pack – the fewer things you have, the easier (and cheaper) your relocation will be. Take this opportunity to donate, sell, or toss items you no longer need.
  • Invest in quality packing supplies – skimping on packing materials can cost you broken items. Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and protective blankets.
  • Label everything clearly – label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of the contents.
  • Wrap breakables individually – when packing fragile items, wrap each item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent breakage.
  • Take photos of electronics before unplugging – avoid the “where does this cord go?” dilemma by snapping a quick photo of your electronics setup before unplugging everything.
  • Don’t overpack boxes – it’s tempting to cram as much as possible into each box, but overpacking can cause boxes to break or become too heavy to lift
  • Pack heavier Items on the bottom – this prevents fragile items from being crushed.
  • Use small boxes for heavy items – it will make them easier to carry.
  • Get help when needed – if you don’t have time or energy to deal with packing properly, don’t hesitate to get professional packing services.
Friends packing and smiling before cross-country moving
With our tips, you can finish packing like a pro

The Ultimate Moving Checklist – Don’t Forget These!

Moving across the country is a big deal, and there are a lot of little details that can easily slip through the cracks. Having a relocation checklist of must-dos can make sure everything gets done, and nothing is forgotten – and we’ve already tackled a lot of tasks that should be on it. However, there are some other things to remember to do before the moving day comes, such as:

Preparing Key Documents and Legalities

Paperwork might not be the most exciting part of your move, but it’s one of the most important. Make sure you’ve gathered everything you need, like birth and marriage certificates, contracts, insurance documents, and medical records.

If you’re shipping a car cross-country, don’t forget to prepare the title, registration, and any necessary permits. The same goes for housing. Whether you’re selling a house or signing a lease, have all your legal ducks in a row before the big day.

Finishing Utilities, Subscriptions, and Address Changes

Nobody wants to arrive at their new home only to find out there’s no electricity, Internet, or running water. Before relocating to a new home, contact your utility companies to transfer or set up services at your new location. Don’t forget to update your address with the post office, banks, and any subscriptions you have, like streaming services or magazines.

Setting Packing Essentials Aside

Prioritize what you’ll need right away and pack relocation essentials in an easily accessible box. This might include toiletries, a few changes of clothes, medications, and chargers for electronics. Think of it as your “survival kit” for the first few days in your new home.

Saying Goodbye to Friends

Relocating isn’t just about logistics but also about leaving behind the people and places that have been part of your life. Make time to say goodbye to friends and family before you go. Whether it’s a casual get-together, a heartfelt dinner, or even a video call if you’re short on time, these moments are important for closure.

Cross-Country Moving With Kids – What You Need to Know

Relocating to a new state is challenging enough, but throw kids and pets into the mix, and you’ve got a whole new set of logistics to handle. However, planning ahead, as always, can make the journey smoother for everyone involved.

Long car rides and lengthy flights can feel endless for kids, so it’s crucial to have a plan to keep them occupied. Prepare a bag with their favorite snacks, games, and books. Consider downloading some new movies or shows on a tablet.

Audiobooks are also a fantastic option, especially if you’re aiming for a screen break. If you’re driving to a new home, break up the monotony with frequent stops to stretch, grab a bite, or explore quirky roadside attractions. It’ll keep the trip fun and exciting for them (and keep you sane).

What to Do When Relocating With Pets

Just like humans, pets can get stressed out by the whole relocation process. To make it easier on your furry companions, start by ensuring they’re comfortable with their travel carriers or crates ahead of time. Pack a pet essentials bag with food, water, a blanket, toys, and any medications they might need.

For air travel, double-check airline regulations for pet transport. Most importantly, keep their routine as consistent as possible to reduce anxiety – and don’t forget to update their microchip and tags with your new address!

A couple with a dog packing before cross-country moving
Keep your furry friends safe, calm, and ready for a new adventure

How to Move Long-Distance? Shipping Your Car vs. Driving It Cross Country

The thought of hitting the open road, music blaring, and the promise of adventure ahead sounds tempting. But when you’re moving, the thrill of a road trip quickly wears off. Consider the practicalities – gas costs, wear and tear on your car, the sheer exhaustion of driving for days, and possible roadside issues. And don’t forget the added expense of lodging and meals along the way. What starts as a fun idea can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare.

Now, imagine waving goodbye to all those headaches and letting professional movers take the wheel. Professional car shipping allows you to focus on settling into your new home rather than worrying about navigation, traffic, or the condition of your vehicle after a long haul. After all, wouldn’t you rather step off a plane feeling refreshed instead of crawling out of your car after a week on the road?

Settling in and Making Your New House Feel Like Home

After a long journey of moving across the country, the hardest part might seem over. However, unpacking after the move and settling into your new home can be just as daunting. Instead of diving in headfirst and risking burnout, you should start with a plan.

Begin by unpacking essentials first – things like toiletries, kitchen supplies, and bedding that you’ll need immediately. Break the process down room by room, tackling one area at a time. Don’t try to do everything in one day – pacing yourself helps prevent feeling overwhelmed. Take this opportunity to rethink how you want to set up your new space so you’re not just recreating your old home but building something fresh and functional.

Unpacking might take time, but don’t wait too long to explore your new surroundings. Take a walk around the neighborhood to find the nearest parks, grocery stores, coffee shops, and local hangouts. It’s not just about practicality – getting a feel for your new environment helps you settle in emotionally, too.

A group of friends smiling while sharing a meal
To meet your neighbors, consider throwing a small housewarming party

Make Your Move Easier by Hiring Cross Country Movers

Relocating across the US is no small task. From organizing your belongings to planning the perfect route, the process can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. How can I move with ease, you ask? Hiring professional movers can take the stress off your shoulders and make the entire experience smoother.

With expert handling, efficient packing, and safe transportation, Cross Country Movers can help ensure your belongings arrive at your new home intact and on time. Let us take care of the details while you focus on settling in and enjoying the journey. Contact us today to make your cross-country move a seamless, worry-free experience!

Milly Andrews

Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.

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