Moving from coast to coast? Cross-country moves can feel daunting, but by following the right steps for the process, you can successfully relocate with minimal stress and maximum efficiency. If you’re curious about the best way to approach your cross-country relocation, we’ve got you covered. Follow our complete moving guide to make your relocation feel like a breeze!
- Start Planning Early
The most important step for a successful cross-country move is to start planning early. Moving is a complex process, especially when you’re headed far away, and giving yourself enough time allows you to tackle each task without the added pressure of rapidly approaching deadlines. Begin planning at least 8 to 12 weeks in advance—or even earlier if you have the luxury. Early planning gives you the flexibility to handle unexpected issues and avoid rushing.
- Enlist the Help of Experts
Cross-country moves require more logistical planning than local moves, which means professional assistance can be a very helpful asset. Enlisting the help of an experienced moving company that specializes in long-distance relocations is a great way to make your move feel easier. These companies have the resources, equipment, and expertise to safely transport your belongings from coast to coast. Additionally, some moving companies offer full-service options, including packing, unpacking, and vehicle transportation, which can offer even more valuable assistance. Carefully research your options and obtain quotes from multiple companies to secure the best price available.
- Book Movers Early
Once you’ve selected a moving company, book them as early as possible, especially if you’re planning to move during the peak moving season. High demand during the summer months can lead to limited availability, higher costs, and fewer options. Booking early allows you to lock in your preferred moving date and avoid last-minute surprises—plus, it offers peace of mind to know you have this task checked off of your to-do list. You might even snag an early booking discount!
- Declutter Your Home
A cross-country move offers the perfect opportunity to declutter your belongings. The more items you bring to your new home, the more expensive your move will be. If you have a lot of items you no longer want or need, these added expenses can be easily avoided. Take the time to go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Hosting a garage sale or selling items online can also generate some extra cash for your moving expenses.
- Create a Budget
Moving across the country can be expensive, so creating a budget can allow you to manage costs more effectively. Factors to consider include the moving company’s fees, transportation costs, accommodation during the move, and packing supplies. Additionally, you may need to account for extra services such as packing assistance, vehicle shipping, or temporary storage if your new home isn’t immediately ready. A thoroughly planned budget will help you keep expenses in check and prevent unexpected financial strain during your move.
- Acquire Moving Supplies
You will need to gather the right packing supplies to ensure your belongings are safe and secure during the move. High-quality boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and heavy-duty tape are must-haves for any relocation. For fragile items like glassware or electronics, invest in specialized packing materials. You’ll also need markers for labeling and plastic wrap for protecting large furniture items. By using the proper supplies for your move, you can ensure your items are protected, decreasing the risk of damage during transportation.
- Get Moving Insurance
Long-distance moves carry more risks due to the distance traveled, so investing in moving insurance is a wise choice. While most professional movers offer some form of coverage, it might not fully protect your high-value items. Depending on how many valuables you have, you can determine whether additional insurance is right for you. If you do have many valuables, moving insurance can provide peace of mind that your belongings will be compensated in case of damage or loss during transport. Check with your moving company to fully understand their coverage options, and consider purchasing additional insurance if you’re moving expensive items.
- Notify Important Parties
Before your move, notify important parties of your address change. This includes updating your mailing address with the post office, your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any subscription services. If you have kids (or are a student yourself), inform their school about the move. Don’t forget to update your driver’s license and vehicle registration as well, since each state has its own rules for address changes.
- Schedule Utility Termination and Activation
In the weeks leading up to your move, schedule the termination of utilities at your current home and the activation of utilities at your new residence. Utilities include electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable, so make sure you cover all your bases. Give your providers at least two weeks’ notice to ensure a smooth transition. Coordinating these services ahead of time prevents disruptions when you arrive at your new home, which is important for a smooth transition.
- Pack with Extra Care
Packing for a cross-country move requires more attention to detail than a local move. Items will be in transit for an extended period, so packing everything securely is essential to mitigate the risk of damage. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper, and cushion boxes with soft materials to prevent movement. For your sensitive items, clearly label boxes as “fragile” when necessary. Another important consideration is to avoid overpacking boxes, as this can cause items to get crushed. For electronics and appliances, use their original boxes if available.
- Label Everything
Proper labeling is key to staying organized throughout the moving process—and staying organized allows for a much less stressful experience. Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room it belongs in at your new home. This makes it easier for movers to place items in the correct rooms and simplifies unpacking. You can even color-code to help with room placements. Whichever method you prefer, it’s crucial that you label everything thoroughly.
- Keep Inventory of Your Items
Creating an inventory of your belongings is a wise idea for a long-distance move. Keep track of what you’re moving, especially valuable or fragile items. This can be as simple as taking photos of your items before they’re packed or creating a detailed list of the contents of each box. Having an inventory helps you stay organized and can be crucial in case of any loss, damage, or disputes with the moving company.
- Disassemble Furniture
For large pieces of furniture, such as beds, dining tables, and desks, disassembly is often necessary to transport them. Breaking down furniture into smaller components helps to prevent damage during transit and makes it easier to load into the moving truck. Keep screws, bolts, and other small parts in labeled bags, and tape them securely to the furniture pieces to avoid losing them.
- Ship Automobiles
If you have multiple vehicles or don’t plan to drive to your new home, you’ll need to arrange for automobile shipping. Some moving companies offer vehicle transport services, but you can also use a specialized auto transport service. Whether you’re shipping cars, motorcycles, or recreational vehicles, it’s crucial to research companies and choose one that is licensed, insured, and experienced with cross-country vehicle transportation.
- Confirm All Bookings
In the days before your move, confirm all your bookings, including your moving company, transportation, accommodations, and any other services you’ve arranged. This can give you peace of mind and ensure everything is set up as expected.
- Keep Essentials with You
On moving day, pack a separate bag or box with essentials you’ll need during the move and for the first few days in your new home. This might include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, and chargers for your devices. Having these items easily accessible will save you from having to search through boxes after your lengthy travels.
Complete a Successful Long Distance Relocation
Ready to head across the country? By following these steps, you can experience a streamlined cross-country relocation. For all your cross-country moving needs, count on movers you can trust. Coral Springs Moving & Storage is South Florida’s premier moving company.
Since 1974, we have provided top-rated moving, packing, and storage solutions to customers in Coral Springs and beyond. Our team can facilitate moves of all sizes and distances, catering to the varied needs of all our clients.
Request a free quote today, and discover how we can make your cross-country relocation easier!