Moving Across the Country? Here’s Your Ultimate Checklist!

Moving across the country is a significant transition. Not only do you have to worry about the move itself, but you also have a long list of additional considerations to think about. 

It takes careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth move to a new state. 

Read on for the ultimate checklist to guide you through the process of moving across the country!

Your Essential Checklist For Moving Across the Country

Moving your belongings and relocating your entire life doesn’t have to make you lose your senses. With the proper planning, you’re likely to view your cross-country adventure with a lot more enthusiasm and a lot less angst. So, give yourself a much-needed break by following our insider advice when preparing for your big moving day. 

Eight Weeks Before the Move

1. Get online and check out your new neighborhood. Search for the must-have facilities in your area, such as the schools, post-office, and local gym. 
2. If you rent your current home, give the landlord notice of your moving date. 
3. Create a budget that includes moving expenses, airline tickets, supplies, hotel stays, and any other costs you might incur.
4. Book an experienced moving company and ask them specific questions about their services. Also, discuss important details and any special instructions for your movers. Confirm a date and time for the moving company to arrive.
5. Arrange your personal transportation. If you are renting a car or flying, book your reservations.

Six Weeks Before the Move

1. Plan a day of purging to declutter and get rid of anything you don’t need or want to take with you to your new home.
2. Purchase moving supplies, such as boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers, and shipping tape.
3. Begin packing items that you won’t need between now and the move date, such as keepsakes and seasonal decor. You might also pack items for which you have duplicates, such as extra dishes and linens, to cut down on your to-do list as you inch closer to your big day.
4. Contact the utility companies and confirm the date to end service at your soon-to-be old address. Also, set up utility services for your new location and make sure that they will be in place when you arrive.
5. If you need to arrange for childcare or a pet-sitter during your move, now is the time to confirm these arrangements.

Two to Four Weeks Before the Move

1. Notify the post office and any subscriptions that you receive by mail of your change of address and the effective date.
2. Pick up copies of any important records from your doctor’s office, dentist, vet, employer, and your child’s school.
3. Cancel local memberships and pay outstanding dues or fines.
4. Contact your moving company to confirm the details of your last conversation. This will likely provide you with peace of mind, and give you a chance to go over any last-minute requests.
5. Map your travel route and write down important information, such as your flight’s arrival time, hotel accommodations, or any other crucial info.
6. Start the packing process! Remember, it takes longer than you think. Make sure all boxes are labeled on each side.

Week Before the Move

1. Continue packing.  Set aside valuable items to keep in your possession.
2. As you empty each room, thoroughly clean it—or schedule a professional cleaning service to take care of the task once you have left.
3. Dispose of hazardous materials that can’t go with you.
4. Empty the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry and clean them.
5. Pack a box of essentials that will stay with you, and not go on the moving truck. This box should include medications, electronic devices and chargers, toiletries, and a change of clothes.

Moving Day

1. Make a final sweep of your house. Check all storage spaces, cabinets, and closets for forgotten items.
2. Greet your professional movers who will move your belongings to your new home. Take care of the necessary paperwork.
3. Stay available as the movers pack the truck in case they have questions.
4. Enjoy your new home!

Looking For Experienced Movers That You Can Trust?

If you need help moving across the country, we’ve got you covered.

Look no further for experienced, reputable movers that you can trust to make the moving process as stress-free and painless as possible.

Contact us to find out more about our services and start planning your successful move today!