What Is the Fastest Way to Move Out of State?

The fastest way to move out of state is to hire a professional moving company, prioritize packing essentials, and declutter as you go. This way, you can streamline the process, save time, and hit the road without unnecessary hassle.

Time-Saving Tips to Speed Up Your Move Out of State

Planning an out-of-state move can feel like trying to juggle a thousand tasks at once, and without a solid strategy, things can quickly descend into chaos. A well-thought-out approach combined with a few time-saving tricks can turn the process into a smooth, organized, and efficient transition. 

By structuring each step and keeping essentials in order, you can dodge those last-minute stressors, stay in control, and make settling into your new place a breeze. Here’s how a thoughtful plan, plus a few smart relocation hacks, can transform the entire process into a streamlined experience that’s fast, effective, and surprisingly manageable.

Start Decluttering ASAP

If you’re looking for the fastest way to move out of your parents’ house (and avoid bringing everything you’ve ever owned), decluttering is the first step. Start by sorting through clothes, furniture, and all those items you rarely use, then sell or donate unwanted items or toss anything you don’t need. This will not only reduce the load but also make packing a whole lot faster.

Pack Smart and Light

When it comes to a quick relocation, packing light is essential. Keep it simple by using smart packing hacks, like leaving clothes on hangers or using laundry bins as temporary boxes. Prioritize essential items and organize them carefully so you’ll have an easier time unpacking. If you’re planning on moving cross-country, pack items based on what you’ll need immediately and what can be unpacked later, allowing for a smooth transition into your new home. 

Book Long-Distance Movers on Time

If you’re opting for long-distance moving services, timing is everything. Booking cross-country movers early on ensures you secure the best rates and avoid last-minute scheduling conflicts. Professionals can speed up the process considerably by handling heavy lifting, packing, and transport logistics, helping you get out the door and on your way to your new life with ease.

Look for movers that offer added benefits designed to streamline the process and cut costs. For example, Cross Country Movers provides free disassembly and reassembly of furniture, along with packing and wrapping services, which can significantly speed up the entire relocation. With professionals handling these time-intensive tasks, you’ll be ready to settle into your new place in record time.

Get Organized With Labels and Lists

One of the easiest ways to pack for a move is to create a solid labeling system and detailed lists. Start by making a checklist for each room to keep track of what’s packed and what’s not. Color-coded labels can make unpacking after the relocation smoother, especially when moving across the country. You’ll know exactly where each box belongs, saving time and hassle. Plus, adding labels with fragile tags will help ensure the long-distance movers handle your most delicate items with care.

Gather Supplies for Maximum Efficiency

Wondering when to start boxing up for a move? The answer: as soon as possible! To keep everything on schedule, have all your supplies ready early on. Stock up on boxes, tape, markers, and protective materials before the big day arrives. Following a packing schedule will help you stay on track without having to make multiple trips for more supplies.

Packing Hacks for a Faster Relocation

Packing efficiently can save valuable time on relocation day. By using smart shortcuts and thinking creatively, you can stay organized and avoid the stress of last-minute moves. These hacks focus on maximizing your existing resources, streamlining your approach, and ensuring the essentials are within reach when you arrive at your new place. Here’s how to tackle moving day with efficiency and ease.

Pack an Essentials Bag

Boxing up an essentials bag is a must for any relocation, especially if you want a hassle-free first night. This bag should include all your daily necessities, like toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, important documents, chargers, and any valuables you’ll want to keep close. 

Consider this your “grab-and-go” bag, with everything you’d need to feel at home in a new space without unpacking a single box. By having these essentials on hand, you avoid the frustration of rummaging through boxes and can settle in comfortably on your first night. Here’s a checklist for the ideal essentials bag:

• Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and any personal hygiene items
• Change of clothes – Comfortable outfit for the first day, pajamas, and extra undergarments
• Medications – Any prescription medications, pain relievers, or first aid supplies
• Important documents – IDs, passports, moving contracts, rental agreements, and any documents you might need
• Chargers – Phone, laptop, and any other device chargers you’ll need
• Valuables – Wallet, keys, jewelry, and other small valuables you want to keep close
• Basic kitchen supplies – Snacks, a water bottle, coffee/tea, and a reusable mug or cup
• Towels and basic bedding – A towel for each family member and any essential bedding items, like a pillow or blanket
• Pet essentials (if applicable) – Food, water bowl, leash, and any medication or comfort items for your pet

Pack by Priority, Not Necessity

Boxing up by priority can make unloading far simpler. Instead of thinking about what’s necessary, focus on what you’ll need as soon as you arrive in your new home. Pack non-essentials, like seasonal clothing, decorations, or spare linens, first and place them toward the back of the truck or van. 

This way, essential items like kitchenware, bedding, and work essentials are loaded last and can be unpacked first. This approach eliminates the need to dig through packed boxes for key items and helps you get settled faster.

Use Suitcases, Bins, and Bags

Think beyond the typical cardboard box by using suitcases, laundry bins, and storage bags to pack your belongings. Suitcases on wheels are perfect for heavy items like books or shoes, reducing strain and making it easy to transport them. Laundry bins can be used for items you’ll want to unpack quickly, like pillows, towels, or toiletries. Large storage bags are also handy for soft items, such as clothes and linens. By utilizing these items, you save space in the truck and make unpacking more organized and manageable.

Last-Minute Tricks for a Smooth Transition

Even the most well-organized relocation can benefit from a few last-minute strategies to ensure everything goes smoothly. These final steps are about covering any remaining bases, so you’re not caught off guard once you’re on the road or settling into your new home. From setting up utilities to planning your route, these tips help you avoid unnecessary stress and keep things running seamlessly.

Set Up Utilities Ahead of Time

Nothing kills the excitement of a new home like arriving to find no power or internet. Before moving day, contact utility providers to set up electricity, water, gas, and internet so everything’s ready when you arrive. Many companies allow you to schedule services in advance, so aim to have them activated the day before you move in, if possible. This little bit of pre-planning ensures you’re not scrambling to set things up and can jump straight into unpacking and settling in.

Map Out Your Route for a Hassle-Free Drive

Mapping out your route is essential for a stress-free, efficient drive, especially if your journey spans hundreds of miles or more. Long-distance driving can be challenging. The Federal Highway Administration reports that fatigue, traffic delays, and road hazards are common issues that affect long-haul travelers.

BUBBLE: Long-distance drivers experience a 20% higher risk of accidents due to fatigue

If you’re hoping to save even more time, consider that most moving companies also offer car shipping services. With this option, your car can be transported while you fly to your destination, sparing you the long drive and speeding up your transition into your new home. For those juggling a cross-country move and aiming for the fastest route possible, shipping your vehicle might just be the solution for a smoother, quicker relocation.

Fastest Way to Move Out – Let Movers Pack Some Items or All of It

For those looking to relocate quickly and efficiently, opting for full or partial packing services can be a game-changer. With full packing services, movers handle everything from start to finish, including carefully boxing up delicate items like glassware, electronics, and artwork. 

If you’re in a time crunch but still want to handle some of the workload yourself, partial packing services allow you to delegate just the most fragile or challenging items to the professionals, ensuring they’re wrapped and boxed with expert care.

Choosing one of these options can save hours and prevent the hassle of dealing with specialized materials and techniques. If you’re aiming for the fastest move possible, letting professionals manage your most delicate belongings is a reliable way to streamline the process and keep your items safe.

How to Get Ready for Movers and Speed Up the Process

Preparing your home for movers can make a big difference in speeding up the entire process. Start by clearing pathways throughout your home, especially around doorways and hallways, so the movers have easy access to all rooms. 

Disassemble any furniture you’re comfortable taking apart, like bed frames or tables, and group smaller items in boxes rather than leaving them loose. Label each box with its destination room in your new home to avoid confusion during unloading. By setting everything up for efficient access, you’ll help the movers work quickly and get you settled in your new place faster.

Wrapping Up Your Relocation: A Smooth Transition Awaits

Relocation doesn’t have to be chaotic. By following these tips and staying organized, you can make your transition as smooth as possible. Whether you’re packing essentials, decluttering, or planning each step, a little preparation goes a long way. If you’re ready to take the stress out of your relocation entirely, contact Cross Country Movers to get a quote for a seamless and efficient moving experience. With the right approach and our professional cross-country moving services, you’ll be settled into your new place in no time!