Moving is a daunting task, but it can be especially challenging when you’re doing a cross-country or interstate move. Most people will need a detailed plan to get through the entire moving process.
In this article, we’re sharing the 7 steps you need to make your cross-country move a success. Let’s get to it!
1. Plan your move from start to finish.
Cross-country or interstate moves can take a long time to complete, but some people underestimate the time and resources they’ll need to get it done. This is why you need a detailed plan. Start by thinking about how you want to get your items ready. Are you going to pack everything yourself, or do you need help packing some of your items?
Then think about what you need to prepare in your home when you move in. Are your utilities ready? Is your new home ready for you to move into?
You also need to decide how you’re going to get your belongings to the new location. Are you going to hire movers and what parts of the move will they be involved in? Moving companies have various services – from full-service moves to self-service moves – so be clear about what you need their help with.
2. Declutter your home.
The less stuff you have to move, the better! Not only will it save you money on moving costs, but it will also make the whole process a lot less stressful. So go through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use anymore.
Should you keep, toss, or donate your items? You need to decide what to do with the items you’re getting rid of. If you find items that are worth selling, then it’s time to organize a yard sale. You can also sell them on Craig’s List or Facebook Marketplace.
Some items may not be worth selling, but someone else will find value in them, so donate them to a local charity. Items you can’t sell or donate are better tossed away. Make sure you dispose of your items properly, or send them for recycling.
3. Create a budget.
Moving can be expensive so make a list of all the potential expenses and keep a strict budget. Costs such as moving truck rental, gas, hotel stays, and food could easily add up. When you add this to the cost of rental or mortgage, and utilities, in your new home, your finances can take a direct hit, so make sure it is stable.
By now, you should have already decided what type of movers you need, and created a detailed plan on how you’re going to get through the entire move.
Full-service moving companies will handle everything from packing to unpacking and can even provide storage options. You could also take the DIY route. You hire a moving company to drive your belongings to your new location, while you take care of everything else.
4. Plan how you will pack your belongings.
Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing! Begin a few weeks in advance so you can take your time and do it right. You can start by packing items that are non-essential to your daily activities. Some examples could be books, decorative pieces and extra bedroom items.
Be sure to label all of your boxes so you know what’s inside each one. A good rule of thumb is to label the boxes according to the items inside and their location in the house. Don’t put valuables in a box. Rather, take them with you in the car.
Take extra care when packing your items, especially the breakables. Use bubble plastic to wrap each item individually, add a layer of paper over it, and put crumpled paper inside cups and glasses. Organize breakables into a right-sized box. You don’t want them to move around inside the box using transport. If you’re moving furniture, disassemble them if possible and wrap them in moving blankets.
5. Plan how you will get to your new location.
You can either drive yourself to your new place, or take the plane and hire a moving company to transport the car for you. Either way, you need to decide how you plan to take yourself and your vehicles to your new location.
If you plan to drive your car across the country, make sure to get it serviced first. This includes getting an oil change, checking the tires, and getting a tune-up. You don’t want to break down on the side of the road in the middle of your move!
If you’re taking the plane, you can hire a moving company to transport your car to your new home. But even if you’re not driving you car over hundreds of miles, it’s still a good idea to have it serviced before you leave. You will need your car as soon as you get to your new place, and if it’s not in tip-top shape
6. Prepare the essentials in your new home.
From utilities to home insurance, your new place needs to be ready for you to move in. You might even need a fresh coat of paint and a professional cleaning to make your place warm and welcoming. Whether you need that done before you arrive, or as soon as you move in, getting your new home ready should be part of your plan.
Remember to settle everything first in your old home. if you were renting, make sure you’ve settled your financial obligations from utility bills to your security deposit.
Update your address and inform the people who need to reach you. Let friends and family know you’ll be in touch as soon as you’re settled in. And don’t forget the DMV. You must notify your local DMV of any changes to your address whenever you move and transport a vehicle across state lines.
7. Make sure you have insurance.
A cross-country move can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be stressful. One of the things you don’t want to worry about is whether all of your belongings will make it to your new home in one piece. That’s why it’s important to have insurance.
Insurance will protect your belongings and give you peace of mind if something goes wrong. You can get insurance through a moving company, or you can purchase it separately. Be sure to compare rates and coverage before you decide.
Personal travel insurance is necessary for you and your family. And whether you’re renting or buying a new home, be sure you have the proper insurance coverage as well.
Enjoy your cross-country move.
Once everything is packed up and ready to go, take a deep breath and relax. You’ve done all the hard work, now it’s time to enjoy the ride! If you’re driving, take your time and enjoy the scenery. And if you’re flying, be sure to catch up on some sleep so you’ll be rested and ready to tackle all the new adventures that await you in your new home.
How to choose a moving company?
Choosing the right moving company is crucial for a successful cross-country move, and there are several essential factors to consider when making this decision.
First and foremost, research is key. Take the time to explore moving companies’ reputations, read reviews, and seek recommendations from friends or family.
Next, ensure the moving company is licensed and insured to protect your belongings during transit. Requesting in-home estimates from multiple companies will help you compare costs and choose the one that aligns with your budget.
Moreover, opt for a moving company that has experience with cross-country moves, as they will be better equipped to handle the logistics and potential challenges that may arise during the journey. Prioritize excellent customer service and clear communication, as this will alleviate stress throughout the moving process.
At PeopleMove Moving, we take pride in being a reliable choice for cross-country moves, offering personalized services to meet your specific needs and ensure a smooth and successful relocation. Get in touch with us today at 502-281-0517 to get a no-obligation quote.
