Have you ever faced the daunting task of moving across the country? The endless list of tasks to complete, the uncertainty of what to expect in your new home, and the stress of ensuring your belongings arrive safely can be overwhelming. But worry not – we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from planning your move to settling into your new home, making your cross-country move as smooth and stress-free as possible. So let’s dive into “what things to do before moving across country” to ensure a successful relocation.
Short Summary
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Careful planning and budgeting are essential for a successful cross-country move.
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Declutter, source quality packing supplies, and research moving companies thoroughly to ensure the relocation process is efficient.
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Research the area before relocating, set up utilities in advance, and transfer licenses/registrations when necessary to make the transition smoother.
Planning Your Cross-Country Move
The key to a successful cross-country move lies in careful planning and organization. Whether you’re moving for a job, family, or a change of scenery, taking the time to research and prepare will make all the difference, even when it comes to local moves.
In this section, we’ll cover the importance of creating a moving timeline, budgeting, and researching moving companies to ensure a seamless transition to your new home.
Moving Timeline
Time is of the essence when planning a cross-country move. Ideally, you should start planning at least two months in advance, giving yourself ample time to research moving services and organize every aspect of the move. By breaking down tasks into a timeline, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and ensure everything is taken care of before moving day.
When mapping out the route, consider factors such as:
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the availability of gas stations, restaurants, and rest stops
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potential highway or traffic issues
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weather advisories
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any areas to avoid, especially when crossing state lines
Additionally, don’t forget to bid farewell to family and friends before embarking on your interstate move, as it provides a last opportunity to reconnect during the moving process.
Budgeting
Moving can be expensive, especially when moving across the country. To avoid financial surprises, it’s essential to create a moving budget that outlines all expected expenses, from moving company fees to travel costs. The average cost of hiring professional movers for an out-of-state move is $4,890, while a long-distance move with a professional moving company typically costs around $4,300. Keep in mind that DIY moves or moving containers can be more budget-friendly options.
To save money on packing supplies, consider sourcing free moving supplies from local retailers, online marketplaces, or community groups. Moving.com’s box center also offers various deals and discounts on moving supplies. Remember that cutting corners on packing materials may not be the best idea, as quality packing materials are crucial for protecting your belongings during the move.
Researching Moving Companies
Finding a reputable moving company is crucial for a successful cross-country move. Here are some steps to follow.
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Start your research at least eight weeks before the move.
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Obtain at least three quotes from different moving companies.
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Consult online reviews to ensure you’re hiring a trustworthy mover.
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Request personal recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues.
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Check the company’s U.S. DOT number and Better Business Bureau rating.
By following these steps, you can find a reliable moving service with a moving company that has at least three movers for your cross-country move.
When comparing moving quotes, be wary of estimates that seem too good to be true or quotes provided online without an in-person inspection of your items. Also, it’s worth inquiring whether the moving company is a member of the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). Don’t forget to ask about potential discounts, such as military discounts or AAA discounts, as this can help you save money on your move.
Packing Tips for a Long-Distance Move
Efficient and secure packing is essential for ensuring that your belongings arrive safely at their destination. In this section, we’ll share valuable tips on decluttering, sourcing packing supplies, and mastering the packing process, so you can confidently tackle this crucial aspect of your cross-country move.
Decluttering is the first step in the packing process. Start by sorting through your belongings and deciding.
Decluttering
Downsizing your possessions before a move not only makes the process more efficient but also more cost-effective, as the expense of your cross-country relocation depends largely on the weight of your possessions. Here are some steps to follow.
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Take an inventory of your home.
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Dispose of any unneeded items through donation, recycling, or discarding.
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Charities like The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and Goodwill offer complimentary pick-up services for donations.
By decluttering, you’ll not only reduce your moving costs but also make unpacking and settling into your new home much easier. Here are some benefits of decluttering.
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Less heavy lifting
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Fewer moving boxes
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A more streamlined unpacking process
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Saving time, energy, and money
Packing Supplies
Using quality packing materials is essential for protecting your belongings during a long-distance move. For a successful move, you’ll need:
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Boxes
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Packing tape
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Box cutter
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Stretch wrap
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Labels
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Permanent markers
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Packing paper
To save money on packing supplies, consider sourcing used boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap from local retailers, online marketplaces, or community groups. Friends and family can provide you with extra boxes and supplies. Ask them if they have any spare items available.
Remember that cutting corners on packing materials may not be the best idea, as quality packing materials are crucial for protecting your belongings during the move, especially when you have just a few items. Investing in proper packing materials will help prevent damage to your items, saving you time and money in the long run.
Packing Process
When packing for a cross-country move, it’s important to have a system in place to ensure efficiency. Start by packing non-essential items first, gradually working towards essentials. Group items together based on the room they belong to, making it easier to unpack and organize your new home.
During the packing process, consider using packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and keep your items organized. These tools can be especially helpful for packing clothing and smaller items. Additionally, ensure that items are stacked securely in your moving boxes or trucks to prevent any damage during the move.
Preparing Your New Home
While the moving process can be overwhelming, it’s essential to also focus on preparing your new home for your arrival. In this section, we’ll discuss steps to take to ensure a smooth transition. From researching the area to setting up utilities and forwarding your mail, there are a few key steps to take to make sure your move is as stress-free as possible.
Researching the Area
Familiarizing yourself with your new neighborhood is an important step in making your new house feel like home. If possible, visit your new city in person to explore the local culture and atmosphere. If an in-person visit isn’t feasible, consider using online resources such as Google Street View or review sites to virtually “explore” your new neighborhood.
Researching your new area can help you identify nearby amenities, such as:
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grocery stores
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schools
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parks
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public transportation
This information will not only help you plan your move but also allow you to better integrate into your new community upon arrival.
Setting Up Utilities
Before moving into your new home, it’s important to schedule utility transfers or installations ahead of time. Here are some steps to follow.
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Contact your utility providers at least two months before your move to ensure a smooth transition.
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Make sure to confirm the transfer or installation date.
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Provide any necessary documentation to avoid any issues upon arrival.
Remember that transferring utilities is just one aspect of preparing your new home. Be sure to also update your address with important institutions, such as banks and insurance providers, and schedule any necessary maintenance or repairs before moving in.
Address Change and Mail Forwarding
One often overlooked step in the moving process is updating your address and forwarding mail through the United States Postal Service (USPS). To update your address, simply access the USPS website or visit your local post office. To initiate mail forwarding, visit USPS.com and select the desired start date.
By updating your address and forwarding mail, you’ll ensure that important documents and packages are delivered to your new home without delay. This simple step can help you stay organized and connected during the transition to your new life.
Travel Arrangements
Choosing the right method of transportation for your cross-country move is essential for a smooth transition. In this section, we’ll cover various travel options, such as driving versus flying, shipping vehicles, and preparing pets for long-distance travel, to help you make the best decision for your unique needs.
Driving is often the most cost-effective option for a cross-country move. It allows it to allow it to be used with ease.
Driving vs. Flying
Deciding whether to drive or fly to your new home depends on several factors, such as cost, duration of the journey, and potential stress involved. Generally, driving is more cost-effective than flying and offers greater flexibility in terms of schedule and potential stops, as well as the ability to transport more personal items. However, driving takes longer and can be more exhausting, with additional costs for gas, vehicle rental, and accommodations along the route.
On the other hand, flying is faster and more convenient but may be more expensive and limited in terms of space and weight restrictions for your belongings. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the amount of belongings you need to transport.
Shipping Vehicles
If you decide not to drive your vehicle across the country, there are several car shipping options available, such as:
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Auto transport companies
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Amtrak’s Auto Train
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Hiring a professional driver
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Utilizing an auto transport company
Auto transport companies typically offer open-air carriers or enclosed carriers, depending on your preferences and budget.
When selecting a car shipping service, consider factors such as cost, delivery time, and the reputation of the company. It’s important to choose a reliable service to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time at your new home.
Pet Travel
Preparing pets for long-distance travel can be a challenge, but ensuring their comfort and safety is crucial during a cross-country move. Before traveling, visit the vet to ensure your pet is up to date on shots, in good health, and has the necessary documentation, such as proof of vaccination.
When choosing a mode of transportation for your pet, consider airline regulations and pet-friendly accommodations along your route. If flying, be sure to research the airline’s pet policies and any restrictions on where your pet can fly.
If driving, plan regular stops to allow your pet to stretch, eat, and drink, and make sure to have a comfortable, secure space for them in the vehicle.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Moving across the country involves more than just packing and transportation; it also requires addressing important legal and financial matters. In this section, we’ll discuss potential tax implications, insurance and valuation coverage, and the transfer of licenses and registrations to help you navigate these crucial aspects of your move.
Tax implications can vary depending on the state you are moving to and from. It is important to keep it in mind.
Tax Implications
While moving expenses are no longer deductible on your federal tax return, some states may still allow deductions for moving expenses on your state tax return. It’s important to check the specific rules for your state and consult a tax professional if needed.
Additionally, be aware that reimbursement of moving expenses or a moving allowance provided by your employer may be considered taxable income. Make sure to consult with your employer and tax professional to understand the tax implications of your move and any financial assistance provided.
Insurance and Valuation Coverage
Understanding valuation coverage options and considering additional moving insurance is crucial for protecting your belongings during a cross-country move. Basic protection offered by moving companies may not cover the full value of your items, so it’s important to consider options such as full-value protection for comprehensive coverage.
When selecting insurance and valuation coverage, consider factors such as the overall value of your property and the various valuation options available, including actual cash value, replacement cost, and declared value. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure your belongings are adequately protected during the move.
Transferring Licenses and Registrations
Relocating to a new state requires transferring:
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Professional licenses: Contact the relevant licensing board in your new state to determine the necessary steps for transfer.
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Driver’s licenses: You’ll have 30 days to transfer your driver’s license.
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Vehicle registrations: The typical time frame for transferring vehicle registration when relocating to a new state is 30 days.
Don’t forget to update your voter registration when relocating to a new state. Registering to vote can be done in-person, via mail-in, or online. Taking care of these legal and financial matters will help ensure a smooth transition to your new life across the country.
Summary
Moving across the country can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but with careful planning, organization, and the right resources, you can make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From researching moving companies and packing efficiently to setting up utilities and addressing legal and financial matters, this comprehensive guide has provided you with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully navigate your cross-country move. Here’s to new beginnings and a seamless transition to your new home!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare for cross country moving?
Prepare for your cross-country move by giving yourself time to plan carefully, sell and get rid of items you don’t need, keep important documents handy, pack clothing strategically, vet your movers, label your boxes, learn about the new area, and fit in a road trip.
With proper planning, you can have a stress-free moving experience.
What do you need when moving across country?
When moving across the country, make sure to pack your wallet and keys, medications, important documents, toiletries, clothes, electronics, and any other necessary items.
Additionally, bring supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, a tool kit, pet food, and bottled water.
How long does it take to prepare to move across country?
Planning for a cross-country move should start at least two to three months in advance in order to have enough time to assess and prepare for the move. Sorting out your belongings, finding movers, collecting and updating documents, packing, and organizing a safe and efficient moving day are all necessary steps to prepare for your relocation.
It is important to take the time to research and compare different moving companies, as well as to get quotes and read reviews. Additionally, you should make sure to check the company’s insurance coverage and ask about any additional fees that may be associated with the company.
What factors should I consider when creating a moving budget?
When creating a moving budget, be sure to factor in costs such as those from moving companies, packing supplies, and travel expenses. This will ensure you have an accurate idea of the full cost of your move.
How can I find reputable long-distance movers?
To ensure a reliable long-distance move, seek out customer reviews and recommendations, as well as obtain quotes from multiple companies.